Braised cabbage with tenderloin in a Romanian pot

Name: Braised cabbage with tenderloin in a Romanian pot - Cristina O.
Ingredients: 1 large cabbage; 600 g pork tenderloin or thigh; 50 ml olive oil; salt; pepper; 1 teaspoon ground thyme; 2 tablespoons of butter; 200 ml tomato paste; 3 tomatoes; 150 ml sour cream

Diverse - Braised cabbage with tenderloin in a Romanian pot by Cristina O. - Recipia

Cabbage sautéed with tenderloin in a Romanian pot - A savory and comforting recipe Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooking time: 60 minutes Total time: 90 minutes Number of servings: 4-6 Introduction Sautéed cabbage with tenderloin is a traditional dish, full of flavor, that reminds us of family meals, bringing together the rich aromas of natural ingredients. This recipe, lovingly cooked in Romanian pots, offers not just a delicious meal, but also a comforting culinary experience. With a perfect combination of soft cabbage and juicy pork, this dish is ideal for cool days or any special occasion. Necessary ingredients - 1 large cabbage (approximately 1-1.5 kg) - 600 g pork tenderloin or pork leg - 50 ml olive oil - Salt (to taste) - Pepper (to taste) - 1 teaspoon ground thyme - 2 tablespoons butter - 200 ml tomato paste - 3 large ripe tomatoes - 150 ml sour cream Ingredient details - Cabbage: Choose a fresh, firm cabbage with crispy leaves. Cabbage is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, and has antioxidant properties. - Pork tenderloin: Can be replaced with leg, but tenderloin offers a finer texture and a more delicate taste. It's important to choose quality meat for a flavorful dish. - Tomato paste: Provides a rich flavor and an extra splash of color to the dish. You can use homemade tomato paste for an authentic taste. - Sour cream: Adds creaminess and a contrast of textures, making the dish even more appetizing. Use high-quality sour cream with a higher fat content. Step by step: Preparing the recipe 1. Preparing the cabbage: - Start by finely chopping the cabbage. It’s important to slice it evenly for even cooking. - Place the chopped cabbage in a large bowl and add salt, pepper, and ground thyme. Mix well to ensure all cabbage slices are evenly coated with the spices. 2. Sautéing the cabbage: - Heat 50 ml of olive oil in a large skillet over low heat. - Add the seasoned cabbage and let it sauté, stirring occasionally. If you notice the cabbage sticking to the pan, you can add a cup of water to prevent burning. 3. Adding the tomato paste: - After about 20-25 minutes, when the cabbage becomes soft and sautéed, add the tomato paste and mix well. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then turn off the heat. 4. Preparing the pork tenderloin: - Cut the pork tenderloin into cubes. In another skillet, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil and add the meat. - Season with salt and pepper and brown the cubes on all sides until golden. - Add a cup of water and let it simmer over low heat for 25-30 minutes, until the water reduces and the meat becomes tender. 5. Combining the ingredients: - Once the meat is cooked, mix it with the sautéed cabbage, ensuring everything is well combined. 6. Preparing the Romanian pot: - Grease a Romanian pot with 2 tablespoons of butter to prevent sticking. - Pour the cabbage and meat mixture into the prepared pot, leveling it out. 7. Adding the tomatoes and sour cream: - Slice the tomatoes and place them on top of the cabbage and meat mixture. - Generously add the sour cream, covering everything evenly. 8. Baking: - Preheat the oven to 170 degrees Celsius. - Place the pot in the oven and let it bake for 20 minutes, until the sour cream is lightly browned. 9. Serving: - Serve the dish warm, alongside steaming polenta or a slice of fresh bread. Serving suggestions and variations - You can add a few slices of bell pepper for an extra splash of color and flavor. - If you want a spicier version, add a few chili flakes during the sautéing of the cabbage. - Instead of sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Nutritional benefits This recipe is rich in nutrients, with high fiber content from the cabbage and protein from the meat. It is a balanced meal, ideal for a healthy diet. Frequently asked questions 1. Can I use pickled cabbage? - Yes, pickled cabbage can be used, but it will slightly change the flavor of the dish. In this case, reduce the amount of salt. 2. Can I prepare this dish in advance? - Absolutely! You can prepare the cabbage and meat a day ahead and reheat them before serving. 3. Is this recipe suitable for freezing? - Yes, the dish can be frozen. Make sure to store it in airtight containers. 4. What drinks pair well with this dish? - A light beer or a dry red wine will pair perfectly with this dish, enhancing the rich flavors of the meat and cabbage. Sautéed cabbage with tenderloin in a Romanian pot is more than just a dish; it's a true celebration of flavors and aromas, perfect for enjoying with loved ones. I invite you to try this recipe and bring a touch of tradition to your table!