We separate the cabbage leaf by leaf and put it in cold water for about 30 minutes, so that it softens a bit and becomes easier to handle. After soaking, we drain the cabbage and chop it finely into thin strips, so it will integrate perfectly into the dish. This step is essential for achieving a pleasant and even texture in the food.
The kaiser, a smoked delicacy, is cut into larger slices, taking care to maintain a thickness that allows the flavors to be released during baking. It is important to choose a quality kaiser with a rich taste, which will significantly contribute to the flavor of the dish.
In a clay pot, which will help with even cooking and retaining heat, we place a first layer of cabbage. On top, we sprinkle freshly ground pepper, dried thyme, and bay leaves, to add intense flavors. Then, we add half of the kaiser, making sure to distribute the slices evenly, so that each portion benefits from the smoked taste.
We continue with another layer of cabbage, which we cover with the remaining kaiser and a tomato sauce. The tomato juice will bring extra moisture and help blend the flavors, transforming everything into a tasty and hearty dish. On top, we place the rest of the smoked meat, which will become crispy during baking and add a pleasant texture.
After placing all the ingredients, we put the pot in the oven, set to a medium temperature, and let everything bake for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. It is important to check from time to time, especially towards the end, to ensure that the cabbage is well cooked and that the smoked meat develops an appetizing crust. When everything is ready, we take the pot out of the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes.
We serve the cabbage warm, alongside a portion of steaming polenta or fresh bread, as preferred. This simple yet flavorful combination will surely delight anyone, and the blended flavors will turn any meal into a true celebration of tastes.
The kaiser, a smoked delicacy, is cut into larger slices, taking care to maintain a thickness that allows the flavors to be released during baking. It is important to choose a quality kaiser with a rich taste, which will significantly contribute to the flavor of the dish.
In a clay pot, which will help with even cooking and retaining heat, we place a first layer of cabbage. On top, we sprinkle freshly ground pepper, dried thyme, and bay leaves, to add intense flavors. Then, we add half of the kaiser, making sure to distribute the slices evenly, so that each portion benefits from the smoked taste.
We continue with another layer of cabbage, which we cover with the remaining kaiser and a tomato sauce. The tomato juice will bring extra moisture and help blend the flavors, transforming everything into a tasty and hearty dish. On top, we place the rest of the smoked meat, which will become crispy during baking and add a pleasant texture.
After placing all the ingredients, we put the pot in the oven, set to a medium temperature, and let everything bake for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. It is important to check from time to time, especially towards the end, to ensure that the cabbage is well cooked and that the smoked meat develops an appetizing crust. When everything is ready, we take the pot out of the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes.
We serve the cabbage warm, alongside a portion of steaming polenta or fresh bread, as preferred. This simple yet flavorful combination will surely delight anyone, and the blended flavors will turn any meal into a true celebration of tastes.
Ingredients
1 larger sauerkraut (about 2 kg) 300 g kaiser in my case 500 ml tomato juice dried thyme peppercorns salt if needed bay leaves