Braised cabbage with mushrooms and smoked meat

Sautéed cabbage with mushrooms and smoked meat is a traditional dish that evokes family memories and warm, aromatic meals. This recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious, made quickly and from accessible ingredients. In this recipe, I will share not only the preparation steps but also some useful tips and suggestions that will transform your dish into a true feast.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 1 medium fresh cabbage
- 2 large carrots
- 2 green onions
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for added color)
- 200 g mushrooms (preferably champignon or porcini, fresh or canned)
- 200 g cooked smoked meat (can be bacon, sausages, or smoked ham)
- 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste (or tomato sauce)
- 1-2 tablespoons of oil (preferably olive or sunflower oil)
- 1 teaspoon of vegetable seasoning (or vegetable spices)
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste (preferably avoid, as the smoked meat is already salty)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by cleaning all the ingredients. Cut the cabbage into thin strips, the carrots into rounds or grate them, and chop the green onions finely. Wash the bell pepper and cut it into strips. If using fresh mushrooms, clean and chop them into small cubes. The smoked meat should be cut into medium-sized pieces to integrate easily into the mix.

2. Sautéing the vegetables
In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the green onions and sauté for 1-2 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the carrots and bell pepper, letting them soften for 5-7 minutes. This mixture will create a flavorful base for the sautéed cabbage.

3. Adding the cabbage
Now it’s time to add the chopped cabbage. Stir well so that the vegetables combine evenly. Add a cup of water, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. Check occasionally, stirring to avoid sticking, and ensure the cabbage softens and becomes slightly sweet.

4. Including the mushrooms and smoked meat
Once the cabbage is soft, add the cooked and chopped mushrooms, as well as the smoked meat. Mix well to incorporate all the ingredients. Add the tomato paste, vegetable seasoning, pepper, and, if necessary, a little salt. Continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes, stirring constantly to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Finishing the dish
After everything is well mixed and cooked, turn off the heat and let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the flavors stabilize and intensify.

6. Serving
The sautéed cabbage with mushrooms and smoked meat is served hot, either plain or with a dollop of sour cream on top for added creaminess. You can pair it with polenta or fresh bread, and a glass of white wine or a light beer would perfectly complement the meal.

Practical tips:
- If you want a lighter version, you can replace the smoked meat with smoked tofu or textured soy, making the dish vegetarian.
- Experiment with spices – add sweet or hot paprika for a more intense flavor.
- If you want a richer taste, add a few tablespoons of sour cream at the end, mixing well to achieve a creamy texture.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, with a low calorie content. Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamin C and fiber, while mushrooms provide protein and antioxidants. The smoked meat, although higher in calories, adds important protein content.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use sauerkraut instead of fresh cabbage?
- Yes, but you will need to adjust the amount of salt and may need to reduce the cooking time.

2. What type of mushrooms can I use?
- Champignon mushrooms are the most common, but you can experiment with wild mushrooms for a more intense flavor.

3. Is this a good recipe to prepare in advance?
- Absolutely! This sautéed cabbage keeps well in the fridge and can be reheated without losing its flavor.

Possible variations:
- You can add diced potatoes to make the dish more substantial.
- A vegan version could include chickpeas or lentils instead of smoked meat.

This sautéed cabbage with mushrooms and smoked meat recipe is not just a simple and quick dish but also a delicious way to bring a touch of tradition into your kitchen. Enjoy every bite, and remember that the dish becomes even tastier the next day when the flavors have had time to blend!