Ever found yourself craving a unique side dish that packs a punch of flavor yet is so simple to prepare? If you haven’t discovered the joy of charred cabbage with spicy ssamjang butter, you’re in for a treat! This dish brings the bold and exciting flavors of Korean cuisine right to your kitchen without complicated steps. Ideal for busy weekdays or as an accompaniment to your weekend feasts, this charred cabbage will become your go-to favorite. Rich, smoky, spicy, and a touch savory, the ssamjang butter elevates this humble vegetable into a star dish that everyone will rave about. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to create this delightful side dish, its benefits, and tips to customize it to your liking.
What is Charred Cabbage with Spicy Ssamjang Butter?
Charred cabbage with spicy ssamjang butter is an innovative side dish deeply rooted in Korean flavors. Cabbage, often overlooked, is transformed through the high heat of the grill or skillet, leading to a beautiful char that enhances its natural sweetness and adds depth.
The star of this dish is undoubtedly the ssamjang—a savory, slightly spicy Korean dipping sauce typically made from fermented soybean paste, chili paste, sesame oil, and garlic. This sauce is not only flavorful but also nutritious, packed with probiotics due to its fermentation process. When mixed with butter, it becomes a rich spread that complements the charred goodness of the cabbage beautifully. This dish is often served alongside grilled meats or rice, but it can stand on its own as a tasty snack or a healthy appetizer!
Why You’ll Love Charred Cabbage with Spicy Ssamjang Butter
You’ll love this dish for several reasons! First and foremost, it’s a perfect example of how to turn simple ingredients into something extraordinary. The blend of charred cabbage and spicy ssamjang butter creates a complex flavor profile that is both satisfying and comforting.
This preparation aligns beautifully with a healthy lifestyle too, packing fiber, vitamins, and probiotics into every bite. The smoky char contributes to the umami flavor, making this cabbage dish irresistible even to those who aren’t usually fans of vegetables.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Whether you’re having a barbecue, a weeknight dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this cabbage will impress. It’s great when served hot off the grill but also delicious cold, making it ideal for lunchboxes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare charred cabbage with spicy ssamjang butter, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– **1 medium green cabbage** (about 2 pounds): This is the base of the dish. Look for a firm, fresh head of cabbage with tightly packed leaves. You can also use Napa cabbage for a different texture and flavor.
– **1 tablespoon olive oil**: This helps to achieve that lovely char and enhances the flavor. You can use other oils such as avocado oil or any neutral oil with a high smoke point.
– **Salt & pepper**: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste, but remember that the ssamjang sauce will also add saltiness.
For the spicy ssamjang butter:
– **4 tablespoons unsalted butter** (softened): This adds a creamy texture and balances the spice. You could substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
– **2 tablespoons ssamjang**: Essential for flavor. This savory paste is a mix of fermented soybean paste and chili paste. You can find it in Asian grocery stores or online, or even make your own!
– **1 teaspoon sesame oil**: A couple of drops of this oil will give a toasted, nutty flavor that enhances the dish.
– **1 teaspoon minced garlic**: Fresh garlic adds a powerful punch and aroma. You can adjust the amount based on your preference.
– **Optional garnishes**: Toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions for serving. These add a lovely crunch and more flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Charred Cabbage with Spicy Ssamjang Butter
Making charred cabbage with spicy ssamjang butter is easy and quick with these simple steps:
1. **Prepare the cabbage**: Begin by removing any damaged outer leaves from the cabbage. Slice the cabbage into quarters or thick wedges, ensuring that the core remains intact. This helps the wedges hold together while cooking. Rinse the wedges under cold water to clean and pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
2. **Season the cabbage**: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush each cabbage wedge lightly with olive oil, and sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This basic seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the cabbage while it cooks.
3. **Char the cabbage**: Place the cabbage wedges on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they develop a nice golden-brown char and become tender. You should see some caramelization occurring, which leads to delicious sweetness. Be careful not to overcook; you want the cabbage to retain some crunch.
4. **Make the spicy ssamjang butter**: While the cabbage is grilling, combine the softened butter, ssamjang, sesame oil, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Mix until well-blended and smooth. This will be your spicy, flavorful topping!
5. **Serve it up**: Once the cabbage is beautifully charred, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a minute. Then, generously slather the spicy ssamjang butter over the warm cabbage wedges. If desired, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions to add an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.
6. **Enjoy!**: Serve the charred cabbage warm as a side dish or as part of a larger Korean-inspired meal. Dive right into this dish that’s bursting with flavors and beautiful textures!
Tips & Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you customize and elevate your charred cabbage experience:
– **Storage**: Leftover charred cabbage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly on the stove or in the microwave to revive its flavors.
– **Try different cabbages**: While green cabbage is a classic choice, you can experiment with red cabbage or even bok choy for a twist. Each variety brings its unique flavor and color to the dish.
– **Add protein**: Turn this side into a main dish by pairing it with grilled chicken or tofu, which meld well with the bold flavors of ssamjang butter.
– **Make it spicier**: If you crave more heat, consider adding a pinch of Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru) to the ssamjang butter for an extra kick.
– **Garnish lavishly**: Enhance your dish with additional toppings like sliced chili peppers, chopped cilantro, or a drizzle of lime juice to brighten the flavors.
Health Benefits or Nutritional Highlights
Charred cabbage with spicy ssamjang butter is not just incredibly delicious; it’s also packed with numerous health benefits. Cabbage is a low-calorie vegetable that provides significant amounts of vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.
The probiotics found in ssamjang promote gut health, while the sesame oil used in the butter supports heart health through healthy fats. A healthy serving of this dish (roughly one cabbage wedge with butter) could be around 150 calories, making it a nutritious addition to any meal. For detailed health benefits of cabbage, you can refer to sources like Healthline .
Frequently Asked Questions
1. **Can I use a different type of oil instead of olive oil?**
Absolutely! You can use any high smoke point oil such as avocado oil, sunflower oil, or canola oil. Each will provide a slightly different flavor profile that can complement the dish.
2. **Is ssamjang difficult to find?**
Ssamjang is available at most Asian grocery stores, especially in the Korean section. You can also find it online, or you can easily whip up a homemade version with fermented soybean paste and gochujang mixed with sesame oil and other seasonings.
3. **Can I roast the cabbage in the oven instead?**
Yes! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the seasoned cabbage on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until you achieve the desired char and tenderness.
4. **What else can I serve with charred cabbage?**
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meat, rice dishes, or other Korean sides like kimchi or pickled vegetables. You can also enjoy it with fresh herbs and grains for a fulfilling vegetarian meal.
5. **Can I make the ssamjang butter ahead of time?**
Absolutely! You can prepare the ssamjang butter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes meal prep easier and quicker when you’re ready to enjoy your charred cabbage.
In conclusion, charred cabbage with spicy ssamjang butter is a deliciously unique dish that transforms a simple vegetable into something spectacular. With its perfect char, coupled with the rich flavors of the ssamjang butter, this dish offers an exciting blend of textures and tastes. Whether you’re looking for the perfect side at your next barbecue or a new way to enjoy healthy veggies, give this recipe a try! You won’t be disappointed. Try it tonight and let me know how it turned out!
