Layered cabbage with minced meat

Layered cabbage with minced meat – A comforting recipe for the soul

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

Imagine a table full of flavors, with the enticing aroma of fresh cabbage and slowly cooked meat perfectly blended together. This layered cabbage with minced meat recipe is not only an ingenious way to use leftover sarma filling, but also a dish that brings comfort and joy. Whether served warm or cold, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

The history of this recipe is valuable, rooted deeply in culinary tradition. Cabbage, a staple ingredient in many dishes, has been used over time due to its versatility and nutritional value. This recipe is a modern adaptation that brings together old cooking techniques and simple yet flavorful ingredients.

Ingredients

- One small white cabbage (approximately 800g)
- Sarma filling (mixed minced meat, onion, carrot, parsley, dill, eggs, broth, salt, and pepper)
- 2 tablespoons of broth
- Oil for greasing the dish
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the cabbage
Start by removing the outer leaves of the cabbage that may be damaged or dried. Once you have a clean cabbage, finely chop it. You can use a knife or a food processor to do this quickly and efficiently. Add a pinch of salt and mix well with your hands to help the cabbage release its juices.

2. Preparing the sarma filling
If you don’t have pre-prepared sarma filling, you can quickly make a mixture from minced meat (pork, beef, or a mix), sautéed onion, grated carrot, fresh parsley, and dill. Add an egg to bind the mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assembling the dish
Take a heat-resistant dish and grease it with a little oil to prevent sticking. Place a first layer of chopped cabbage, followed by a generous layer of sarma filling. Continue by adding another layer of cabbage on top of the filling. These layers will create a savory contrast between the soft texture of the meat and the crunchiness of the cabbage.

4. Adding the broth
In a small bowl, dilute the two tablespoons of broth with a little water, then pour this mixture evenly over the filling in the dish. This step will add a note of acidity and help cook the cabbage evenly.

5. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and allow the ingredients to cook in their own juices. Bake the dish for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and let it bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cabbage is soft and golden.

Useful tips

- Variations: You can use sauerkraut instead of fresh cabbage for a more intense flavor. You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell pepper, to diversify the recipe.
- Serving: This layered cabbage is delicious both warm and cold, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken or turkey in the sarma filling? Absolutely! These types of meat will add a different but equally tasty flavor.
- How much salt should I add? It is recommended to add salt gradually, tasting along the way to avoid over-salting.

Nutritional benefits

This layered cabbage recipe is rich in nutrients. Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamins C and K, while minced meat provides essential proteins. Additionally, by adding vegetables, you get fiber that is important for healthy digestion.

Estimated calories per serving: 300-400 kcal, depending on the type of meat used and the amount of oil.

A personal note

This recipe was inspired by a Sunday when I cooked sarma, but realized I had a considerable amount of filling left. Thus, the idea of using layered cabbage emerged, which proved to be an inspired choice! Each bite brings pleasant memories of family, of shared meals, and the joy of enjoying a good meal together.

So, don’t hesitate to try this simple yet delicious recipe. It’s a perfect way to bring a portion of comfort and warmth to the table, even on the busiest of days. Enjoy!