Cabbage with ribs

Cabbage with Bacon - A Traditional Recipe Full of Flavors

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Cabbage with bacon is an old recipe that combines culinary tradition with authentic taste. This comforting dish is perfect for chilly days or festive meals, bringing a touch of nostalgia and warmth to every serving. Whether you are an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this simple and delicious recipe will win you over.

Necessary ingredients

- 1 kg fresh cabbage, sliced thinly
- 400 g smoked bacon, diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 carrots, grated or diced
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped (optional, for extra freshness)
- 50 ml oil (or 3 tablespoons lard, for a richer taste)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 Knorr cube
- Thyme to taste
- Peppercorns, to preference
- 5 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste

A brief history of the recipe

Cabbage with bacon is a dish that has traveled through generations, with each family having its own variation and traditions related to this preparation. Cabbage, a staple ingredient, has been cultivated for thousands of years and is appreciated not only for its taste but also for its nutritional benefits. Bacon, with its intense flavor and savory texture, perfectly complements cabbage, turning this recipe into a true feast.

Step-by-step preparation technique

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by dicing the bacon and preparing all the other vegetables. Make sure the cabbage is clean and sliced thinly so it cooks evenly and quickly.

2. Browning the bacon: In a large skillet or pot, heat the oil or lard over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and brown it until crispy and fragrant. This step is essential as the bacon will provide the dish with a deep, rich flavor.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent, then add the carrot and bell pepper. Continue to sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, adding salt to enhance their flavor.

4. Adding the cabbage: Once the vegetables have softened, add the cabbage, which you can rub with salt beforehand to soften it. Mix everything well so that the cabbage combines with the sautéed vegetables.

5. Seasoning: At this step, add the browned bacon back to the skillet, the bay leaves, the Knorr cube, thyme, and peppercorns. Let everything cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid sticking.

6. Pressure cooking: Add 1.5 liters of water and put the lid on the pressure cooker. Let it boil for 20 minutes. If you don’t have a pressure cooker, you can use a regular pot, but it will take longer for the cabbage to soften.

7. Final mixing: After 20 minutes, carefully open the lid. Mix the cabbage well and let it boil without the lid for another 20 minutes until all the water has evaporated, and the cabbage is soft and flavorful.

8. Finalizing the dish: When the cabbage is ready, add the 5 tablespoons of tomato paste and let it boil for 1-2 minutes for an appetizing color. Before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness.

Serving and suggestions

Cabbage with bacon is served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. This dish is ideal for a family meal or a dinner with friends. You can accompany the dish with a glass of white or red wine, which will complement the rich flavors of the dish.

Ingredient variations

To add a touch of originality, you can try the following variations:

- Adding potatoes: You can add a few diced potatoes during cooking, which will absorb the flavors and make the dish more filling.
- Alternative spices: If you want to experiment, you can add cumin or sweet paprika to give it a different note.
- Sauerkraut: Instead of fresh cabbage, you can use sauerkraut for a saltier and tangier version.

Nutritional benefits

Cabbage is rich in vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals, having strong antioxidant effects. Bacon, although higher in fat, provides protein and iron. Together, these ingredients offer a balanced meal full of nutrients.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use different types of cabbage? Yes, you can experiment with different types of cabbage, such as red cabbage or Brussels sprouts, but cooking time adjustments will be necessary.
- Is the recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet? If you are vegetarian, you can replace the bacon with mushrooms or tofu to maintain the dish's consistent texture.
- What can I do with leftovers? If you have leftover cabbage with bacon, you can use it in sandwiches or as a filling for pies.

Conclusion

Cabbage with bacon is more than just a simple dish – it is a culinary experience that combines traditional flavors with accessible cooking techniques. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will also bring joy around the table, enveloping every moment in a warm and familiar atmosphere. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and prepare this delicacy that will surely become a family favorite! Enjoy your meal!