Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage

### **Instructions for Making Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage**

#### 1. **Prepare the Ingredients**
Start by prepping your ingredients. Slice the sausage into rounds, peel and devein the shrimp, chop the onion, and mince the garlic. Shred the cabbage by slicing it into thin strips or use a pre-shredded bag of cabbage for convenience.

#### 2. **Cook the Sausage**
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage to the pan and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.

#### 3. **Sauté the Onion and Garlic**
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté them over medium heat until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

#### 4. **Add the Cabbage**
Add the shredded cabbage to the pan with the onions and garlic. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together, making sure the cabbage is well coated with the seasonings. Let the cabbage cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften and caramelize slightly. Add a splash of chicken broth to help soften the cabbage further and add a bit of moisture to the pan.

#### 5. **Cook the Shrimp**
Push the cabbage to the side of the skillet and add the shrimp to the empty space in the pan. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Once the shrimp is done, stir everything together to combine.

#### 6. **Add the Sausage Back In**
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, stirring everything together so the sausage, shrimp, and cabbage are evenly mixed. If desired, add a tablespoon of soy sauce for extra flavor and stir well to combine.

#### 7. **Finish and Serve**
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

### **Serving Suggestions for Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage**

This dish is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but you can pair it with some delicious sides to make it even more filling:

– **Serve with a side of cornbread**: The sweetness of cornbread complements the savory flavors of the cabbage and sausage.
– **Pair with a simple salad**: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would balance the richness of the dish.
– **Rice or mashed potatoes**: If you want a more substantial meal, serve this fried cabbage dish over a bed of rice or alongside creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful juices.

### **Customizing Your Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage**

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to modify it to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas:

– **Add more vegetables**: You can easily add in extra vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to increase the nutritional value and flavor profile.
– **Spice it up**: If you love spice, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or using a spicier sausage like chorizo or andouille.
– **Use a different protein**: If you’re not a fan of shrimp, substitute it with chicken, turkey sausage, or even bacon for a different flavor profile.
– **Make it keto-friendly**: This dish is already quite low in carbs, but you can make it even more keto-friendly by using a low-carb sausage and skipping the chicken broth in favor of a bit more butter or olive oil.

### **Health Benefits of Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage**

– **High in Protein**: Shrimp and sausage provide a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall health.
– **Packed with Fiber**: Cabbage is high in fiber, which is great for digestive health and helps keep you feeling full longer.
– **Rich in Nutrients**: Cabbage is a great source of vitamin C and antioxidants, while shrimp provides essential omega-3 fatty acids.
– **Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly**: This dish is naturally low in carbs and can easily fit into low-carb and keto diets, making it a great option for those watching their carb intake.

### **Conclusion: A Hearty, Flavorful Dish for Any Night**

Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage is the perfect combination of savory, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors that come together in one delicious pan. It’s a comforting, filling meal that’s easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just for yourself, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a favorite in your rotation.

Give this recipe a try today, and enjoy the rich flavors of cabbage, shrimp, and sausage all in one satisfying bite!