Cabbage cake with mozzarella

Cabbage Cake with Mozzarella: A Surprising and Delicious Recipe

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of Servings: 8

Recipe History: The idea of transforming a common ingredient into something truly special is one of the most beautiful adventures of cooking. Cabbage, a humble and often underestimated ingredient, can be used in innovative ways, and the cabbage cake with mozzarella is perfect proof of this. Inspired by culinary traditions that blend techniques and flavors, this cake is an ideal choice for both everyday meals and special occasions.

Ingredients:

- 1 fresh cabbage (approximately 2 kg)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 6 slices of bread (preferably whole grain)
- 250 g of sheep cheese (or salty aged cheese)
- 250 g of mozzarella
- 100 g of butter (for a rich taste)
- 30 g of breadcrumbs (for lining the pan)
- 50 g of grated cheese (for topping)
- Salt
- Pepper

Preparation Steps:

1. Preparing the Cabbage: Start by slicing the cabbage into thin strips to facilitate cooking. Season with salt, but do not rub with your hands; let it sit for 30 minutes. This process will help release the natural juices from the cabbage, intensifying the flavor.

2. Preparing the Pan: While the cabbage is marinating, prepare the cake pan. Grease it with butter and line it with breadcrumbs to prevent the cake from sticking and to achieve a crispy crust.

3. Boiling the Cabbage: Put a pot of water to boil. When the water starts to boil, squeeze the cabbage to remove excess water and add it to the pot. Let it boil for 15-20 minutes until it becomes translucent. This step is essential for improving its texture and reducing bitterness.

4. Draining the Cabbage: After boiling, pour the cabbage into a colander and let it drain. You can let it cool a bit so you don’t burn yourself when handling it.

5. Preparing the Mixture: In a large bowl, soak the bread slices in a little water, then squeeze them well and mash them using a meat grinder. Add the boiled cabbage, drained of excess water. Mix the two ingredients well. Add the eggs, finely chopped dill, sheep cheese (or feta), salt, and pepper. Mix everything with a spatula or your hands until you achieve a homogeneous composition.

6. Assembling the Cake: Pour half of the cabbage mixture into the prepared pan. Place the mozzarella pieces (you can cut them in half for even distribution) and cover with the remaining cabbage mixture. If you saved some mozzarella pieces, you can add them on top.

7. Baking: Grate the cheese and sprinkle it evenly on top. Add a few pieces of butter for extra flavor. Place the pan in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius and let it bake for 60 minutes or until you achieve a brown crust on top.

8. Cooling and Serving: After removing the cake from the oven, let it cool for about 20 minutes on a platter. This time will help the cake set, making it easier to cut. Slice it and serve it warm or cold, with a spoonful of sour cream for added creaminess.

Practical Tips:

- Choose the Right Cabbage: A fresh, firm cabbage will provide the best flavor. Avoid cabbage with spots or yellowed leaves.
- Cheese Texture: If using feta cheese, opt for a salty and aged one that is not watery. This will add a more intense flavor to your cake.
- Variations and Combinations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, to provide a distinct flavor. You can also add vegetables like grated carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
- Garnishes: This cake pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a yogurt sauce with dill, which adds a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Benefits: Cabbage is rich in vitamins K and C, being a low-calorie food but high in fiber. It helps maintain digestive health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can this cake be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the cake after it has completely cooled, slicing it into individual portions. This way, you can defrost it as needed.

2. Is this cake suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe by eliminating the eggs and dairy products, replacing them with available vegan alternatives.

3. How can I vary the spices?
You can add spices like cumin or paprika to give the recipe a more exotic note.

This cabbage cake with mozzarella is not only a simple recipe but also an ingenious way to elevate a common ingredient to culinary refinement. By experimenting with its various flavors and textures, you will create a dish that will delight both family and friends. Enjoy your meal!