Cabbage in a pot with smoked meat

Cabbage in a pot with smoked meat - A delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6

Welcome to my kitchen! Today we will prepare a traditional recipe that brings the key to comfort and warmth in every bite: cabbage in a pot with smoked meat. This recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor, combining the rich aromas of cabbage with the intense taste of smoked meat. It is a perfect dish for chilly days, but also to bring a touch of nostalgia and tradition to the table.

A little history

Cabbage in a pot is a dish that has been enjoyed through generations, being a popular meal in many cultures. It is said that cabbage was a staple ingredient in the diet of simple people due to its nutritional value and low cost. Smoked meat, on the other hand, has always been an ingenious way to preserve meat, enriching the flavors of the dishes. This recipe combines these two ingredients, offering a rich taste and an unmistakable texture.

Ingredients

- 2 large heads of cabbage
- 500 g onion
- 300 g smoked meat (sausage or bacon)
- 500 ml tomato juice
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 1 bunch of fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for sautéing
- Hot pepper (optional, for serving)

Preparing the ingredients

1. Cabbage: Start by washing the cabbage well under cold running water. Remove the core and chop the cabbage finely. If you prefer a softer texture, you can soak it in salted water for 10-15 minutes.

2. Onion: Peel the onion and wash it well. Chop it finely, and if you want to avoid tears, you can use a sharp knife or slightly wet your hands.

3. Smoked meat: Cut the smoked meat into small cubes. This will add a rich aroma and savory taste to the dish, so choose a good quality meat.

Cooking

1. Sautéing the onion: In a large skillet or pot, add the oil and let it heat up. Add the chopped onion and sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and slightly golden. This step will release the flavors of the onion and give a delicious taste to the dish.

2. Adding smoked meat: Once the onion is ready, add the chopped smoked meat. Sauté them together for 5-7 minutes, so that the smoked meat releases its flavors and blends with the onion.

3. Incorporating the cabbage: Now it's time to add the chopped cabbage. Stir well, ensuring that all the cabbage is coated with the aromatic oil. Add a cup of milk, which will help the cabbage soften and become creamy.

4. Boiling: Cover the pot with a lid and let everything simmer on low heat for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage will reduce in volume and become soft, while the flavors will combine perfectly.

5. Finishing: Once the cabbage is soft, add the tomato juice and seasonings: salt, pepper, thyme, and dill. Stir well and let it cook for a few more minutes to blend the flavors.

Serving

Cabbage in a pot with smoked meat can be served warm, accompanied by hot pepper for an extra kick. A slice of fresh bread or polenta will perfectly complement this dish. It can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish alongside a juicy steak.

Useful tips

- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, to enrich the dish. Additionally, if you prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the smoked meat with smoked tofu.
- Storage: This dish is even better the next day, so you can prepare a larger quantity and keep it in the refrigerator. You can easily reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of cabbage in a pot with smoked meat has approximately 350-400 calories, being a good source of vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals (calcium, iron). Cabbage is high in fiber, helping with digestion and keeping you full for longer.

Frequently asked questions

- Can it be made without milk? Yes, you can omit the milk or replace it with sour cream for a creamier texture.
- What other dishes can be served alongside cabbage in a pot? This dish pairs perfectly with a pork roast or homemade sausages.

I hope this recipe for cabbage in a pot with smoked meat was to your liking! I encourage you to try making it and enjoy every bite. Bon appétit!