Cabbage with sausages

Delicious Cabbage with Sausages and Smoked Meats Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Cabbage with sausages is a traditional recipe, full of flavor and comfort, that brings together the rich tastes of cabbage, smoked meat, and aromatic spices. This dish can be considered an excellent choice for winter meals, but it is not limited to them. It offers a perfect combination of nutrients and is a good source of vitamins and minerals. Let's begin our culinary journey!

Necessary Ingredients

- 1 large cabbage (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 3 sausages (preferably smoked, but you can also choose fresh sausages)
- 200 ml canned tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes, if you prefer)
- 100 ml oil (sunflower or olive oil are the most suitable)
- 200 g bacon (or pancetta for a more complex flavor)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Spices (paprika, thyme, or oregano, depending on preferences)

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Wash and chop the cabbage: Start by washing the cabbage well under cold running water. Then, cut it into thin strips using a sharp knife. If you prefer, you can also grate it for a finer texture. This step is important because the cabbage will cook more easily and absorb the flavors better.

2. Add salt: Sprinkle salt over the cabbage and mix well, gently pressing the cabbage strips. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. This process helps to extract the juice from the cabbage, making the final dish tastier and with a pleasant texture.

Cooking the Dish

3. Preparing the base: In a large pot, add the cabbage, diced bacon, and enough water to cover the ingredients, plus an extra cup. Place the pot over medium heat and let it boil until the cabbage begins to soften. You can stir occasionally to ensure everything cooks evenly.

4. Add the oil and tomatoes: Once the cabbage has started to boil, add the 100 ml of oil and the canned tomatoes. If using fresh tomatoes, make sure to chop them into cubes for better integration into the dish. Season with salt, pepper, and your preferred spices. I recommend using a teaspoon of sweet paprika for an extra flavor boost and a hint of color.

5. Adding the sausages: When the cabbage is almost done, add the sausages cut into pieces of about 3-4 cm. It’s a good idea to score the ends to allow the flavors to release into the dish. Let everything boil together for 15-20 minutes, until the sausages are well cooked.

Serving the Dish

6. Assembling the plate: Once everything is ready, take a generous portion of cabbage with sausages and place it on a platter. Personally, I like to serve this dish alongside fresh chili peppers, which add a pleasant contrast of spiciness. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs (like parsley) for an extra touch of freshness.

Useful Tips

- Recipe variations: For an even more intense flavor, you can add some slices of carrot or diced potatoes during cooking. You can also experiment with different types of sausages, depending on your preferences.
- Nutritional benefits: Cabbage is a vegetable rich in vitamins C and K, while sausages provide essential proteins. This dish is a good choice for those who want to enjoy a hearty and nutrient-packed meal.
- Tasty pairings: This dish pairs wonderfully with a traditional drink, such as a dry red wine or a pale beer.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use pickled cabbage? Of course! Pickled cabbage can add a unique flavor and a hint of acidity to the dish.
- What other spices can I use? You can also add thyme, oregano, or even a splash of soy sauce for a more exotic touch.

Personal Note

I grew up with this recipe in my family, and every time I make it, I think of the Sunday meals spent with loved ones. Perhaps your recipe will become just as special for you and your family, creating unforgettable memories and joyful moments around the table.

I encourage you to try this cabbage with sausages recipe and enjoy every bite! Try to share it with your loved ones and create your own culinary memories. Cooking is an art, and you are the artist in the kitchen!