Throw This Canned Vegetable In The Pan With Sauteed Cabbage For A More Filling Bite

Let's face it: Cabbage isn't everyone's favorite veggie. Part of its reputation is due to the strong smell produced by sulfur compounds released when it's cut, which can become even more pronounced during cooking. Still, you might be surprised by how delicious cabbage can be with the right preparation. With a little fat, the right seasonings, and the right cooking method, its natural sugars can caramelize and bring out a sweeter, richer flavor that might forever change your mind. Sauteing is one of the best ways to cook cabbage, and if you want to make your sauteed cabbage a little more satisfying, there's a pantry staple worth reaching for: canned potatoes.

The spuds will pair beautifully with the sauteed cabbage, adding a hearty element that makes the dish more filling. Cabbage is low in calories, so it goes naturally with starchy foods like potatoes. If you've ever had Swedish-inspired stuffed cabbage rolls, you know what we're talking about. 

Subtly sweet and earthy, canned potatoes are already cooked, so you won't need to invest extra time in preparation. Plus, they're incredibly affordable (a single can can cost less than $1). As long as the potatoes aren't too high in sodium, some extra seasoning when adding them to the cabbage is all you need to do. Meanwhile, since both cabbage and potatoes are fairly mild, you can get creative with your favorite spices.

One of the reasons canned potatoes always deserve a spot in your pantry is that they need very little preparation. Simply drain and rinse them under running water, and they're ready to use. With that in mind, you will also want to pat them dry with a paper towel or a clean kitchen towel before tossing them into the pan. This little trick will get rid of the excess moisture.

Meanwhile, don't forget that the shape of the potatoes can affect the final dish. Sliced potatoes are a great choice if you want more surface area to brown. Hence, if you want your spuds extra crispy, aim for a diagonal cut. Diced potatoes make it easy to get a piece in every bite. Whole canned potatoes can also work.

Once you've prepped your canned potatoes, add them to the pan when the cabbage is almost done. To ensure better browning, spread them out in an even layer and let them cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes before gently turning them. As for the seasonings, some salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika are great choices. You could perhaps add caraway seeds for a nutty touch, or a bit of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little heat. A splash of broth can make the dish even tastier. Avoid stirring the ingredients too often, since canned potatoes can easily fall apart. And when you do stir them, do it gently. Once done, serve the dish alongside oven-roasted chicken thighs, pair it with cornbread for a Southern twist, or simply enjoy it on its own.