Sweet cabbage cake with mozzarella

Sweet cabbage loaf with mozzarella – a comforting delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooking time: 60 minutes Total time: 90 minutes Servings: 8

When it comes to cooking, sometimes the simplest ingredients can give rise to the most surprising and delicious dishes. This sweet cabbage loaf with mozzarella is a clear testament to this. Inspired by the desire to transform a common ingredient into a savory dish, this loaf will surely become a star on your table!

Recipe history

Cabbage is a versatile ingredient used in various cultures to create delicious and nutritious dishes. From crunchy salads to warm preparations, cabbage provides a healthy and tasty base. This loaf recipe was born from the desire to reinvent how we consume cabbage, offering an original alternative to classic meatballs or patties. With the addition of mozzarella cheese and telemea cheese, we achieve a dish that combines textures and flavors, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

- 1 fresh cabbage (approximately 2 kg)
- 4 eggs
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 6 slices of bread
- 250 g telemea cheese
- 250 g mozzarella
- 100 g butter
- 30 g breadcrumbs
- 50 g grated cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the cabbage: Start by shredding the cabbage. Add salt to the cabbage without rubbing it, and let it sit for about 30 minutes. This will help eliminate excess water and intensify the flavor.

2. Preparing the baking dish: While the cabbage is resting, prepare the loaf pan. Generously grease it with butter and line it with breadcrumbs to prevent sticking.

3. Boiling the cabbage: Put a pot of water on the stove. When the water boils, squeeze the cabbage to remove the juice and add it to the pot. Boil the cabbage for 15-20 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, place it in a strainer to drain and cool slightly.

4. Preparing the mixture: In a large bowl, soak the slices of bread in water. Once they are soaked, squeeze them well and pass them through a meat grinder. Do the same with the boiled cabbage, ensuring that you remove all excess water.

5. Mixing the ingredients: In the bowl with the cabbage and bread mixture, add the beaten eggs, chopped dill, telemea cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.

6. Assembling the loaf: Pour half of the cabbage mixture into the prepared pan. Place the pieces of mozzarella (you can cut them in half) and cover with the remaining cabbage mixture. Grate cheese on top and add a few pieces of butter.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the pan in the oven for about 60 minutes, or until a brown crust forms on top. It is important not to open the oven in the first 40 minutes to allow the loaf to rise evenly.

8. Cooling and serving: Once the loaf is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 20 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a platter and, if desired, you can add some grated cheese on top. Cut it into slices and serve it both warm and cold, alongside sour cream for an extra flavor boost.

Practical tips:

- Cabbage: Choose a fresh cabbage with crispy leaves. Sweet cabbage is ideal for this recipe, but you can also experiment with other types of cabbage, such as red cabbage, for a more vibrant appearance.

- Cheese: Mozzarella provides a creamy texture and a delicate flavor, while telemea cheese adds a pungent taste. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use feta or ricotta cheese.

- Variations: You can add extra vegetables, such as grated carrots or zucchini, to enrich the dish. Additionally, you can replace dill with other herbs, such as parsley or oregano.

- Serving: This cabbage loaf is perfect as an appetizer or main dish. It can be paired with a fresh salad or a yogurt sauce for a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional benefits:

This loaf is rich in vitamins and minerals due to the high cabbage content, which is an excellent source of vitamins C, K, and fiber. The cheese adds calcium and protein, making it a nutritious and filling dish.

Calories: A serving of sweet cabbage loaf with mozzarella contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the serving size and ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can the loaf be frozen? Yes, this loaf can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before dividing it into portions and placing it in freezer bags.

2. Can I use pickled cabbage? Although pickled cabbage can provide a different flavor, it is recommended to use fresh cabbage for this recipe to achieve the desired texture.

3. Can I add meat to the recipe? Sure! Adding minced meat (chicken or pork) can transform this loaf into an even heartier dish. Add the meat to the cabbage and bread mixture.

This sweet cabbage loaf with mozzarella is more than just a recipe; it is an invitation to explore and enjoy cooking! Whether you choose to savor it alone or with loved ones, each slice will bring joy and flavor to your table. Enjoy!