Florida Swamp Cabbage with Hearts of Palm and Cajun Seasoning Recipe
Florida Swamp Cabbage is a flavorful American side dish featuring tender hearts of palm cooked with cabbage, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic vegetables and Cajun-inspired seasonings. This hearty and comforting dish offers a unique texture and a spicy kick, perfect for enhancing any meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Makes about 6 servings
- Category: Side
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 small green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 medium green cabbage, cored and coarsely chopped
Seasonings and Spices
- 2 teaspoons Everglades seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flake, plus more to taste, if desired
- 1 bay leaf
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Other Ingredients
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 (14 oz each) cans hearts of palm, drained and sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat and warm a small amount of oil for about 1 minute. Add the chopped onions, green bell pepper, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and lightly browned, about 8 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the thinly sliced garlic, Everglades or Cajun seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring often, until fragrant to release the spices’ aromas.
- Add Cabbage and Tomatoes: Incorporate the coarsely chopped cabbage, crushed tomatoes, and bay leaf into the pot. Reduce the heat to low or medium-low, cover the pot, and let cook until the cabbage just begins to become tender, approximately 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
- Combine Hearts of Palm: Add the sliced hearts of palm to the mixture and continue to cook uncovered. Stir occasionally as the mixture thickens and flavors meld together, which should take about 10 minutes.
- Finish and Season: Remove and discard the bay leaf. Stir in the apple cider vinegar for brightness. Season the dish with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy this spicy, hearty side dish.
Notes
- Everglades seasoning is a regional Cajun seasoning blend, but you can substitute with your favorite Cajun seasoning or a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and dried herbs.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit if you want a milder dish.
- Hearts of palm adds a unique texture reminiscent of artichoke hearts; make sure to drain them well before adding.
- This dish pairs well with grilled or roasted meats and is a flavorful addition to any Southern or Cajun-inspired meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated; the flavors will deepen over time.
