Cabbage with smoked ribs

Cabbage with smoked ham is a traditional recipe that combines the intense flavors of smoked meat with the freshness of vegetables, creating a comforting and hearty dish. This recipe is not only a delicacy but also an excellent choice for family meals or special occasions, bringing a part of beloved culinary traditions to the table. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or to impress friends, cabbage with smoked ham is sure to be a hit.

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

Necessary ingredients

- 2 pieces of smoked ham (approximately 500 g)
- 1 cabbage of approximately 2 kg
- 1 large onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 tablespoon of homemade vegetable mix (or a mix of dried vegetables)
- 2 tablespoons of tomato juice (preferably freshly squeezed)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons of oil

Recipe story

Cabbage with smoked ham is a dish that has traversed generations in traditional kitchens, symbolizing the comfort and warmth of a family meal. The origins of this dish can be found in times when food preservation was essential for survival. Smoking meat was an effective method of keeping it for longer periods, and cabbage, an accessible and nutritious vegetable, became the perfect ingredient to create a hearty and tasty dish.

Step by step: Cooking cabbage with smoked ham

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the smoked ham well. Make sure to remove any impurities. Cut the ham into suitable pieces so that it cooks evenly. Next, wash the cabbage under cold running water, then slice it thinly. This step is essential to ensure even cooking, and the thin slices will absorb the flavors of the dish.

Step 2: Kneading the cabbage
After cutting the cabbage, add salt and knead it well with your hands to release its juices. This will help soften the cabbage and intensify the flavors.

Step 3: Preparing the vegetables
Wash the onion and carrot, then chop the onion into small cubes and the carrot into rounds or cubes, depending on your preference. These vegetables will add sweetness and texture to the dish.

Step 4: Cooking
In a large pot, heat the two tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the onion and a tablespoon of water, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Then, add the carrot and continue to sauté for another 2 minutes. Add the tomato juice, vegetable mix, and pieces of smoked ham. Cover with water and let it simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes.

Step 5: Adding the cabbage
Once the meat starts to soften, add the cabbage to the pot. Cover with a lid and let it cook for another 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Make sure the cabbage is well cooked and that all the flavors have combined. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serving
Cabbage with smoked ham is served hot, with a slice of fresh bread on the side. You can add a tablespoon of sour cream for extra creaminess. Additionally, a fresh green salad can perfectly complement this dish.

Practical tips

- Choosing the ham: Opt for quality smoked ham, as the smoky flavor will greatly influence the final taste of the dish. I recommend trying other types of smoked meat for delicious variations.
- Cabbage: If you prefer less sour cabbage, you can soak it in cold water for 30 minutes before using it.
- Enhancing flavors: Add a few peppercorns or a bay leaf during cooking to intensify the flavors. You can also experiment with herbs like thyme or dill.
- Variations: For a vegetarian dish, you can replace the smoked ham with smoked tofu or mushrooms.

Nutritional benefits

Cabbage is a vegetable rich in vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, contributing to healthy digestion. Additionally, smoked ham provides essential proteins, being a good source of energy. Together, these ingredients form a balanced dish that can be an integral part of a varied diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use pickled cabbage?
Yes, pickled cabbage can be used, but make sure to adjust the amount of salt, as it is already salty.

2. How can I store leftovers?
Cabbage with smoked ham stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove.

3. What can I serve with this dish?
Warm polenta or a slice of rustic bread pairs perfectly with cabbage with smoked ham. Additionally, a dry white wine can complement the flavors of this dish.

In conclusion, cabbage with smoked ham is not only a delicious recipe but also a way to bring family and friends together around the table. The dish combines tradition with flavor, offering a memorable culinary experience. Whether you enjoy it on cool evenings or at a festive meal, cabbage with smoked ham will surely remain a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy your meal!