Cabbage with homemade noodles

Delicious Cabbage with Homemade Noodles Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Recipe Introduction

Cabbage with homemade noodles is a traditional, simple, and delicious dish that combines the rusticity of ingredients with the authentic flavor of old-fashioned cooking. This recipe is perfect for days when we want to enjoy a meatless meal that is full of taste and nutrients. Additionally, it is an excellent way to bring a part of Romanian culinary traditions to the plate, connecting us to our cultural roots.

A Little Story about Cabbage and Noodles

Cabbage, a fundamental ingredient in Romanian cuisine, is appreciated not only for its taste but also for its nutritional benefits. It is rich in vitamins (C, K) and minerals, and has a high fiber content, making it a reliable ally in healthy diets. Homemade noodles, on the other hand, symbolize culinary comfort, and making them from scratch brings a special satisfaction, transforming ordinary meals into festive feasts of flavor.

Main Ingredients

- 1 kg flour
- 4 eggs
- 2.5 kg sweet white cabbage
- 250 g lard
- 5 g pepper
- 50 g salt

Necessary Tools

- A large bowl for kneading
- A rolling pin
- A sharp knife
- A large pot for boiling
- A frying pan for sautéing

Step by Step to Prepare Cabbage with Homemade Noodles

1. Preparing the homemade noodles:
- Start by putting the flour in a large bowl and adding the salt. Mix well.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and then gradually add them to the bowl with flour. Knead the dough well until it becomes elastic. If it is too dry, you can add a few tablespoons of water.
- Once the dough is homogeneous, let it rest for 15-20 minutes covered with a damp towel.

2. Rolling and cutting the noodles:
- After the dough has rested, divide it into 2-3 parts for easier handling. Roll out each piece of dough on a floured surface until it reaches a thickness of about 2 mm.
- Roll the sheet of dough and cut it into thin strips of about 1 cm. Unravel the noodles and let them dry on a clean towel to prevent sticking.

3. Boiling the noodles:
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. Place the noodles in the boiling water and cook for about 20 minutes. Check them periodically; they are ready when they become soft but do not fall apart.
- Once cooked, drain them and let them cool in a bowl of cold water, then drain well.

4. Preparing the cabbage:
- Chop the cabbage finely and place it in a bowl. Sprinkle salt over the cabbage and massage it well to help release its juices.
- In a large frying pan, melt the lard over medium heat. Add the chopped cabbage and sauté, stirring frequently, until it becomes soft and slightly caramelized (about 10-15 minutes).
- Add the pepper and mix well.

5. Combining the ingredients:
- Once the cabbage is sautéed, add the drained noodles to the pan. Gently mix everything to combine the flavors. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.

6. Serving:
- Serve the cabbage with homemade noodles warm, optionally garnished with a bit of fresh dill or crumbled cottage cheese on top for added flavor. This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or a craft beer to complement the flavors.

Tips and Variations

- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add a few slices of onion when sautéing the cabbage.
- For a vegetarian version, you can use olive oil instead of lard.
- Instead of cabbage, you can try using other sautéed vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, for a reimagined recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use store-bought noodles? Yes, but homemade noodles bring a unique texture and flavor that will transform the dish into a unique culinary experience.
- What is the best cabbage for this recipe? Sweet white cabbage is ideal, but you can also experiment with red cabbage for a splash of color and a different taste.
- How can I store leftovers? Keep the dish in an airtight container in the fridge. It can be easily reheated in the microwave or on the stove.

Nutritional Benefits

This cabbage with homemade noodles recipe is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Cabbage aids digestion, boosts the immune system, and has antioxidant properties. Homemade noodles add complex carbohydrates, essential for energy.

Conclusion

Cabbage with homemade noodles is not just a simple recipe but a true celebration of flavor and culinary traditions. It is a meal that can be prepared quickly yet offers a multitude of flavors and satisfactions. Try this recipe and enjoy a delicious meal that will remind you of home-cooked meals filled with love and tradition.