Sautéed Cabbage and Noodles aka Haluski

Haluski, that heartwarming dish of tender cabbage and perfectly cooked noodles, is a culinary hug in a bowl. This simple yet deeply satisfying recipe brings together humble ingredients to create a symphony of flavors and textures that will transport you straight to grandma’s kitchen. Get ready to savor the sweet caramelized cabbage, the comforting chew of the noodles, and the subtle richness of butter in every single bite!

What is Haluski? A Taste of Tradition

Haluski, pronounced “ha-LOOSH-kee,” is a beloved Central and Eastern European dish featuring sautéed cabbage and noodles. While variations exist across different regions, the core elements remain the same: savory cabbage, usually lightly caramelized, combined with egg noodles and often enhanced with butter, onions, and sometimes even bacon or kielbasa. It’s a dish that’s both budget-friendly and incredibly comforting, making it a staple in many households.

Ingredients for the Best Haluski

To make truly exceptional Haluski, quality ingredients are key. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 medium head of green cabbage (about 2 pounds), cored and thinly sliced
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons butter, divided
• 1 pound egg noodles, wide or medium width
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, but highly recommended)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
• 1/4 cup reserved pasta water (optional, to adjust sauce consistency)

Step-by-Step Haluski Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create the most delicious and authentic Haluski you’ve ever tasted:

1. Prepare the Cabbage and Onions: Begin by thoroughly washing and drying the head of cabbage. Remove the outer leaves if they appear wilted or damaged. Core the cabbage and then, using a sharp knife or mandoline, thinly slice it into shreds. Thinly slice the yellow onion as well. Tip: Uniformly sliced cabbage and onions will cook more evenly.
2. Cook the Egg Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente. Important: Do not overcook the noodles, as they will continue to soften when combined with the cabbage. Reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining the noodles. This starchy water can be used to adjust the consistency of the sauce later, creating a creamier dish.
3. Sauté the Cabbage and Onions: While the noodles are cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Caramelize the Cabbage: Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet with the onions. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If using, add the caraway seeds now. Stir to combine. Cook the cabbage, stirring frequently, until it begins to soften and caramelize, about 15-20 minutes. Pro-tip: For deeper flavor and color, allow the cabbage to slightly brown in the skillet between stirrings. This caramelization process is key to the characteristic sweet and savory taste of Haluski.
5. Combine and Finish: Once the cabbage is tender and caramelized, add the cooked and drained egg noodles to the skillet. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated with the cabbage and melted butter. If the mixture seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water to moisten it.
6. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt and pepper to your liking. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 6-8