Braised cabbage with cracklings

Delicious sautéed cabbage with cracklings recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 1 hour Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Sautéed cabbage with cracklings is a traditional recipe, full of flavor and warmth, reminding us of family meals on chilly days. This recipe combines the sweetness and crunchy texture of cabbage with the rich aroma of cracklings, creating a comforting and hearty dish. It can be served for both lunch and dinner and pairs perfectly with a steaming portion of polenta.

Ingredients

- 2 large pickled cabbages (approximately 1.5 kg) - 500 g cracklings - 150 g melted lard - 10 peppercorns - 3 bay leaves - 8 tablespoons tomato paste - Water

Ingredient tips

Buy quality pickled cabbage without preservatives or additives to ensure an authentic taste. Cracklings can be found at butchers or made at home from pork belly. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use bacon or even tofu cubes for a vegetarian choice. Lard provides a rich flavor, but you can also use olive oil for a healthier alternative.

Preparation

1. Preparing the cabbage: Wash the cabbage well under cold water to remove excess salt. Then, chop the cabbage finely. It is important that the cabbage is cut evenly for it to cook uniformly.

2. The base layer: In a large pot, place a layer of chopped cabbage. Add the peppercorns, two tablespoons of tomato paste, bay leaves, and cracklings on top. Pour 50 g of melted lard over it.

3. Continuing the layers: Repeat this process, alternating layers of cabbage, cracklings, and spices. Cover everything with water, ensuring the cabbage is completely submerged.

4. Cooking the cabbage: Place the pot on high heat and let it boil for 30 minutes. It is essential not to stir during this stage, as the cabbage will release water, and stirring could affect the texture of the dish.

5. Reducing the heat: After 30 minutes, reduce the heat to low and let the cabbage cook slowly for about 30-40 minutes. You will know it is ready when you hear a pleasant frying sound and the cabbage becomes soft and fragrant. At this point, you can gently stir to combine the flavors.

6. Finishing the dish: Finally, add the remaining tomato paste and mix well. Let it simmer for a few more minutes to integrate the flavors.

Serving

Sautéed cabbage with cracklings is served hot, alongside a generous portion of polenta. You can also add sour cream on top for extra creaminess. A salad of fresh tomatoes will provide a pleasant contrast to this hearty dish.

Variations and tips

If you want to customize the recipe, you can add some diced carrots or potatoes to enrich the dish. Another option would be to replace the cracklings with some slices of smoked sausage for an even more intense flavor.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can sautéed cabbage be prepared in advance? Yes, sautéed cabbage can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it on the stove before serving.

2. Can I use fresh cabbage instead of pickled cabbage? Sure! You can use fresh cabbage, but you will need to add a bit of extra salt to give it the characteristic flavor.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans? Yes, you can adapt the recipe using tofu or tempeh instead of cracklings and olive oil instead of lard.

Nutritional benefits

Cabbage is a vegetable rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to immune system health and digestion. Cracklings, although high in calories, provide a good source of protein and healthy fats, making moderation in consumption advisable.

Conclusion

Sautéed cabbage with cracklings is a special dish that brings together culinary tradition with delicious flavors. It is a comforting meal, perfect for chilly days and ideal for enjoying with loved ones. Try this recipe and let yourself be carried away by the aromas and memories evoked by each bite!