How To Smoke Cabbage In A Smoker

Smoking Cabbage in a Smoker: A Unique Twist on Grilled Veggies

When it comes to smoking food, most people think of meats like ribs, brisket, or chicken. However, there’s a whole world of possibilities when it comes to smoking vegetables, and one of the most surprising and delicious options is cabbage. Smoking cabbage in a smoker can transform this humble vegetable into a savory, smoky delight that will have even the most ardent meat-lover coming back for seconds.

Why Smoke Cabbage?

You might be wondering why anyone would want to smoke cabbage in the first place. Well, smoking cabbage adds a depth of flavor that you simply can’t achieve through other cooking methods. The smoky, charred exterior gives way to tender, sweet flesh that is a perfect complement to the rich, smoky flavor from the smoker. Plus, smoking cabbage is a great way to add some variety to your grilling routine and impress your friends and family with your culinary creativity.

Choosing the Right Cabbage

When it comes to smoking cabbage, not all varieties are created equal. For the best results, look for a firm, compact head of green cabbage. The leaves should be tightly packed and free from any blemishes or wilting. Savoy cabbage can also work well for smoking, as its crinkled leaves can hold up to the heat and smoke of the grill.

Preparing the Cabbage

Before you can smoke the cabbage, you’ll need to prepare it properly. Start by removing any tough outer leaves and cutting the cabbage into wedges, leaving the core intact to hold the leaves together. This will help the cabbage cook evenly and retain its shape on the smoker. You can also drizzle the cabbage with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle it with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.

Smoking the Cabbage

Once your cabbage is prepped and ready to go, it’s time to fire up the smoker. Aim for a temperature of around 225°F to 250°F for smoking cabbage. Hickory or mesquite wood chips are great choices for adding a robust smoky flavor to the cabbage. Place the cabbage wedges directly on the grill grates and let them smoke for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until they are tender and lightly charred on the edges. Keep an eye on the cabbage as it smokes, and rotate the wedges as needed to ensure even cooking.

Serving the Smoked Cabbage

Once the cabbage is done smoking, it’s time to serve it up and enjoy the delicious results of your efforts. The smoky flavor of the cabbage pairs beautifully with a simple squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. You can also get creative with your serving options by incorporating the smoked cabbage into salads, slaws, or even tacos for a unique twist on classic dishes.

Final Thoughts

Smoking cabbage in a smoker is a fun and unexpected way to elevate this humble vegetable into a standout dish. Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for new grilling options or a meat-lover wanting to add some variety to your barbecue repertoire, smoked cabbage is a must-try. So, the next time you fire up the smoker, don’t forget to toss on a head of cabbage and experience the delicious transformation that smoking can bring to this underrated veggie.