Braised cabbage with ham is a traditional recipe, full of flavor, that delights the taste buds and brings a festive air to any meal. This delicacy is often prepared during the holidays, but can be enjoyed at any time, especially on chilly winter days. The necessary ingredients are easy to find and do not require much prior preparation.
To begin, choose a fresh, whole cabbage, preferably a firm white one. In addition to cabbage, you will need a large onion, a few ripe tomatoes, a piece of homemade ham, ideally smoked for added flavor, and a bell pepper, which will add color and texture to the dish. Don't forget salt, pepper, and optionally, some spices like paprika or thyme, which will enhance the taste.
The first step is to clean the cabbage, removing the outer leaves and cutting it into quarters. Remove the core and slice the cabbage into thin strips. Then, chop the onion and bell pepper finely. In a large skillet or pot, add a little oil and sauté the onion until it becomes glassy. This process will release the flavors and create a delicious base for the rest of the ingredients.
Once the onion is ready, add the cabbage strips, mixing well to combine. Let the cabbage sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. At this point, also add the diced bell pepper. After about 10 minutes, when the cabbage starts to soften, add the diced tomatoes, which will bring extra moisture and enrich the flavor of the dish.
While the cabbage is cooking, cut the ham into small cubes and add it to the skillet. This will bring a smoky and hearty flavor to the dish. Continue to cook on low heat, covering the skillet with a lid, to allow the flavors to blend well. Make sure to stir occasionally for even cooking. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste, and if desired, sprinkle a little paprika or thyme for an extra flavor boost.
Braised cabbage with ham is served warm, alongside a steaming polenta or a slice of fresh bread. This rustic and comforting dish is perfect for gathering family and friends around the table, offering not only a culinary feast but also unforgettable moments. Savor every bite and enjoy the culinary traditions that bind us!
To begin, choose a fresh, whole cabbage, preferably a firm white one. In addition to cabbage, you will need a large onion, a few ripe tomatoes, a piece of homemade ham, ideally smoked for added flavor, and a bell pepper, which will add color and texture to the dish. Don't forget salt, pepper, and optionally, some spices like paprika or thyme, which will enhance the taste.
The first step is to clean the cabbage, removing the outer leaves and cutting it into quarters. Remove the core and slice the cabbage into thin strips. Then, chop the onion and bell pepper finely. In a large skillet or pot, add a little oil and sauté the onion until it becomes glassy. This process will release the flavors and create a delicious base for the rest of the ingredients.
Once the onion is ready, add the cabbage strips, mixing well to combine. Let the cabbage sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. At this point, also add the diced bell pepper. After about 10 minutes, when the cabbage starts to soften, add the diced tomatoes, which will bring extra moisture and enrich the flavor of the dish.
While the cabbage is cooking, cut the ham into small cubes and add it to the skillet. This will bring a smoky and hearty flavor to the dish. Continue to cook on low heat, covering the skillet with a lid, to allow the flavors to blend well. Make sure to stir occasionally for even cooking. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste, and if desired, sprinkle a little paprika or thyme for an extra flavor boost.
Braised cabbage with ham is served warm, alongside a steaming polenta or a slice of fresh bread. This rustic and comforting dish is perfect for gathering family and friends around the table, offering not only a culinary feast but also unforgettable moments. Savor every bite and enjoy the culinary traditions that bind us!
Ingredients
a not too big cabbage, an onion, a local bell pepper, a large tomato, dill and borscht, homemade ham, horseradish