Slow Cooker Cabbage and Smoked Turkey
This comforting slow cooker cabbage and smoked turkey dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort. The tender cabbage and smoky turkey create a delicious combination that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Simply add your ingredients to the slow cooker in the morning, and dinner will be ready when you come home.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds smoked turkey breast, cubed
- 1 large head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes, 14 ounces
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 bay leaves
Instructions
- Add the cubed smoked turkey, chopped cabbage, diced onion, and minced garlic to your slow cooker.
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juice.
- Stir in the apple cider vinegar, caraway seeds, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the cabbage is tender.
- Remove the bay leaves and taste for seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot in bowls.
Practical Tips
Enhance the flavor: For extra depth, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dollop of sour cream when serving. These additions complement the smoky turkey beautifully.
Prep ahead: Chop your vegetables the night before and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply add everything to the slow cooker and turn it on.
Adjust the cooking time: If you prefer crunchier cabbage, reduce the cooking time to 5 hours on low. For very tender cabbage, extend it to 8 hours on low.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh turkey instead of smoked turkey? Yes, you can substitute with fresh turkey breast, but you’ll need to add extra seasoning to compensate for the smoky flavor. Consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the broth.
Is caraway seeds essential to this recipe? Caraway seeds add a distinctive flavor, but if you don’t have them or prefer to skip them, the dish will still taste delicious. You can omit them entirely or substitute with fennel seeds for a similar aromatic quality.
What can I serve this with? This hearty stew pairs well with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or rice. It’s also satisfying on its own as a complete meal in a bowl.