Cabbage with rice and smoked ribs

Cabbage with rice and smoked pork rind: a traditional recipe with tempting flavors

There are moments when home-cooked food becomes a refuge, a warm embrace on chilly days, or a pleasant childhood memory. Today, I invite you to discover together the delicious recipe for cabbage with rice and smoked pork rind. It is a hearty dish that combines the crunchy texture of cabbage with the deep flavor of smoked pork rind, all embraced by fluffy rice. Let's get to work!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 medium cabbage (approx. 1.5 kg)
- 150 g rice (1/2 cup)
- 200 g smoked pork rind (or smoked bacon)
- 1 large onion
- 1 large carrot
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon lemon salt
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 1-2 sprigs of thyme (optional)
- 2-3 bay leaves
- Sunflower or olive oil, for frying

A brief history
Cabbage with rice and smoked pork rind is a dish that has been cooked for generations, being a hearty and accessible meal. This combination has often been used by skilled housewives to make the most of available resources, and the smoked pork rind adds a touch of flavor, transforming a simple ingredient into a delicacy.

Step by step

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning and chopping the cabbage. Remove the core and cut the leaves into thin strips. Place the cabbage in a large bowl and sprinkle with a little salt, mixing well. This step will help soften the cabbage and enhance the flavor.

2. Preparing the pork rind: Heat a deep skillet over medium heat and add the smoked pork rind cut into cubes. Fry for 5-7 minutes until crispy and fragrant. Make sure not to burn it to preserve the delicate taste.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In the remaining oil in the skillet, add the finely chopped onion and grated carrot. Sauté for 5 minutes until translucent. This step will add a subtle sweetness to the dish.

4. Adding the rice: Wash the rice under cold running water, then add it to the skillet, mixing well to combine with the vegetables. Let it sauté together with the onion and carrot for 2-3 minutes.

5. Combining the ingredients: Add the salted cabbage, pepper, sweet paprika, lemon salt, and bay leaves. Mix everything well and let it sauté for another 5 minutes. Here you can also add the thyme sprigs if you want an extra flavor.

6. Adding the pork rind and tomato paste: After the vegetables have sautéed, add the fried pork rind, tomato paste, and a cup of water. Mix everything well, then transfer the mixture to a baking dish.

7. Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil or a lid and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C for about 30 minutes. This time will allow the flavors to blend and develop.

8. Finishing the dish: Five minutes before removing the food from the oven, add the finely chopped dill on top. This will bring a fresh note, providing a pleasant contrast between the smoky and green flavors.

Serving
Serve the cabbage with rice and smoked pork rind warm, alongside a seasonal salad for a contrast of textures and flavors. A piece of freshly baked homemade bread will perfectly complement this dish. You can also add a spoonful of sour cream on top for extra creaminess.

Useful tips
- Variations: You can try adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers or tomatoes, to diversify the recipe. Also, if you are vegetarian, you can replace the pork rind with smoked mushrooms or marinated tofu.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven or skillet, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
- Nutritional benefits: Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamins C and K, while rice provides complex carbohydrates that will give you energy throughout the day. The pork rind adds protein and healthy fats, contributing to a balanced dish.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use pickled cabbage? Yes, you can use pickled cabbage, but adjust the amount of salt in the recipe, as pickled cabbage is already salty.
- What type of rice is best? Long-grain rice is ideal, but you can also use risotto rice for a creamier texture.
- How can I make the recipe spicier? Add a chopped chili pepper or a pinch of chili flakes during the sautéing of the vegetables.

This recipe for cabbage with rice and smoked pork rind is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a fulfilling activity in the kitchen. I warmly invite you to share your cooking experiences and enjoy delicious flavors together. Enjoy your meal!