Dot's Ham, Cabbage, and Potatoes: A Hearty Family Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a simple, hearty meal to bring everyone together, and Dot’s ham, cabbage, and potatoes is one such dish. This classic recipe has been passed down through generations, serving as a comforting, wholesome meal during family dinners, holidays, and even special gatherings. It's easy to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

I first learned about Dot's ham, cabbage, and potatoes from a family friend who always brought it to potlucks and family reunions. The dish is a true celebration of comfort food, blending the saltiness of ham with the mild flavor of cabbage and the earthy richness of potatoes. One bite, and it feels like home. It’s a dish that reminds me of simpler times, shared meals, and good conversation around the dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Dot’s ham, cabbage, and potatoes recipe is not just comforting, but also incredibly easy to make. With just a few ingredients that are typically easy to find, this one-pot meal requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor. Whether you're cooking for your family or preparing a big meal for a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The combination of tender ham, soft cabbage, and hearty potatoes simmered together creates a perfect harmony of flavors. It's also a versatile dish, allowing you to add your own twist by incorporating spices or other vegetables.

Recipe Overview: Dot's Ham, Cabbage, and Potatoes

This dish is a one-pot wonder, combining tender chunks of ham, savory cabbage, and potatoes into a simple yet delicious meal. The recipe uses basic ingredients, but the end result is a dish full of flavor and warmth. Let’s walk through the steps!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ham (preferably a leftover ham bone with meat or a ham shank)
• 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped into large pieces
• 6-8 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth (or water)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1 bay leaf (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Chop the cabbage into large chunks, peel and quarter the potatoes, and dice the onion. If you're using a ham bone or shank, make sure there’s enough meat on it. Alternatively, you can use pre-cooked ham chunks.
2. Heat the pot: In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add the ham and broth: Place the ham (or ham bone/shank) into the pot with the onions. Pour in the broth or water and bring it to a simmer. If using a ham bone, let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to release its flavors.
4. Add the cabbage and potatoes: Once the broth is simmering, add the cabbage and potatoes. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf (if using). Stir everything together, ensuring the broth covers the vegetables. If needed, add a little more water or broth.
5. Simmer until tender: Cover the pot and let the dish simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes and cabbage are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
6. Serve: Remove the ham bone (if using) and shred any remaining meat back into the pot. Stir the mixture and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the ham, cabbage, and potatoes in bowls with some of the flavorful broth.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 10-15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
• Total Time: 50-65 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This recipe makes about 6-8 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. The dish is already hearty on its own, but you can pair it with:

• Warm crusty bread or rolls to soak up the broth
• A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness
• A glass of white wine or apple cider for a refreshing drink

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, Dot's ham, cabbage, and potatoes store well. Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a pot over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a bit of water or broth to maintain the dish’s moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of ham?

Yes! While ham shank or bone-in ham adds a lot of flavor, you can easily use leftover ham chunks or even store-bought ham steaks. Just make sure you have about 2 pounds of ham for this recipe.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish in a slow cooker by adding all the ingredients and cooking on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Just be sure to check that the potatoes are tender before serving.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, Dot's ham, cabbage, and potatoes can be frozen. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a pot over medium heat until warmed through.

Conclusion

Dot’s ham, cabbage, and potatoes is a classic, comforting recipe that brings people together. Whether it’s a cold winter evening or a family gathering, this hearty dish delivers flavor, warmth, and satisfaction with every bite. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below!