Cabbage and plenty of leeks stew

Duck with cabbage and leeks - a rustic autumn recipe

When autumn makes its presence felt, nature offers us the richest and most aromatic ingredients. Duck with cabbage and leeks is a recipe that combines the flavor of meat with the sweetness of seasonal vegetables, creating a dish that will delight your taste buds. This recipe is not just a meal, but a true feast that reminds us of family gatherings, filled with warmth and joy.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients

- 1 large, beautiful duck (approximately 2-2.5 kg)
- 1 medium cabbage
- 1 kg leeks
- 1 kg tomatoes
- 4-5 carrots
- 1 tablespoon spicy chili ketchup
- 2 bell peppers
- 2 onions
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon salt (or to taste)

Necessary utensils

- Large pot with lid
- Grater
- Kitchen knife
- Wooden spoon
- Rolling pin for polenta (optional)

Preparation

1. Prepare the duck: Start by cutting the duck into portions. Cut the meat into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking. If you prefer, you can remove the skin, but do not throw it away as it will add flavor.

2. The vegetables: Wash the cabbage, leeks, and other vegetables thoroughly. Grate the cabbage, slice the leeks into rounds, and dice the carrots and bell peppers. Chop the onion finely. This step is crucial as each vegetable will bring a distinct note to the dish.

3. Cook the duck: In a large pot, add the pieces of duck and pour enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Cover the pot and let it simmer slowly so that the meat becomes tender.

4. Add the vegetables: Once the duck has started to boil, add the chopped onion and leeks. These will give a special flavor to the dish. After about 30 minutes, when the meat has started to soften, add the grated cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers.

5. Season: Sprinkle the salt and mix well. Let it simmer at a moderate heat, covering the pot, until the carrots are cooked.

6. Finalize the dish: When the carrots are cooked, add the diced tomatoes and the spicy chili ketchup. This will give a slight spiciness and pleasant acidity. Cook everything together for another 30 minutes.

7. Add the tomato paste: Once the vegetables are well cooked, add the tomato paste and mix. Check the taste and adjust with salt if necessary. Let it boil for another 2-3 minutes, then turn off the heat.

Serving

Duck with cabbage and leeks is served hot, alongside a generous portion of polenta. The steaming polenta will perfectly balance the strong flavors of the meat and vegetables, and a sprinkle of sheep cheese on top will provide a wonderful finishing touch.

Useful tips

- Choosing the meat: Choose a fresh, quality duck, preferably from a local source. Duck meat is fattier than chicken, but this contributes to the juiciness of the dish.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as celery or parsley, for an extra flavor. Additionally, you can replace the ketchup with soy sauce for a different taste.
- Side dishes: Besides polenta, you can serve the dish with assorted pickles or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the meal.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also offers nutritional benefits. Duck is an excellent source of protein and essential fatty acids, while the vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Cabbage and leeks are rich in antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use chicken instead of duck?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using chicken, but the cooking time will be shorter.

2. How can I store the food?
The dish keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove.

3. Can I freeze the dish?
Yes, this is a recipe that freezes well. Make sure to place it in airtight containers.

Conclusion

Duck with cabbage and leeks is more than just a simple recipe; it is an opportunity to gather the family around the table and savor beautiful moments. When you prepare this dish, you not only enjoy its delicious flavors but also the memories it creates. So, I wish you happy cooking and enjoy your meal!