Swamp Cabbage Is A Southern Specialty That Deserves Better Branding - Tasting Table

"Though these hearts of palm are not actually cabbage, the classic Southern dish got its quirky name both for the palm trees' location in the Florida swamps and for the fact that they're also often colloquially referred to as "cabbage palms." Most modern variations of the recipe also include chopped green cabbage. Made with thick bacon, smoked sausage, and the "holy trinity" of peppers, onions, and celery, this stewed cabbage can be side dish or a well-rounded meal in itself."

"After cooking the meats and veggies, this dish comes together over a slow simmer with the addition of vegetable broth, canned diced tomatoes, garlic, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Use fresh cabbage and canned hearts of palm for added convenience and let everything tenderize into a hearty and mouthwatering meal. Though the finished product might slightly resemble its name this doesn't make it any less delicious. Remember to keep an open mind and an adventurous palate."

Swamp cabbage takes its name from the edible hearts of the sabal palm, Florida's state tree, and from the palm's swamp habitat and nickname 'cabbage palms.' The dish usually combines hearts of palm and chopped green cabbage with thick bacon, smoked sausage, and the 'holy trinity' of peppers, onions, and celery. Meats and vegetables are cooked, then simmered with vegetable broth, canned diced tomatoes, garlic, salt, pepper, and onion powder until tender. Fresh cabbage and canned hearts of palm add convenience. Variations include Cajun or Creole seasoning, crushed red pepper, a dash of apple cider vinegar, or vegetarian swaps with plant-based meats and oil.

Read at Tasting Table