New cabbage with meat

New Cabbage with Meat: A Spring Dish Full of Flavor and Nutrition

Spring is a season of renewal, and one of the most delicious ways to celebrate this time is with a comforting and healthy dish: new cabbage with meat. This recipe not only offers an explosion of flavors but also combines the juicy texture of the meat with the freshness of the cabbage, making it perfect to serve alongside a portion of warm polenta. Let's delve into the details of this recipe, learn more about the ingredients, and prepare for a memorable culinary experience.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 kg pork shoulder (cut into cubes)
- 3 new cabbages (medium)
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (about 400 g)
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 2 lemons (juice)
- 200 ml oil (sunflower or olive)
- Salt and pepper to taste

A Brief Story about Cabbage

Cabbage is a versatile ingredient, used for centuries in various traditional dishes. It not only offers a delicious taste but is also packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet. New cabbage, which appears in spring, is more tender and sweeter than winter cabbage, making it ideal for recipes that highlight freshness.

Preparing the Recipe

1. Preparing the Cabbage

Start by slicing the cabbages into thin strips. Place them in a large bowl and add salt and the juice from the two lemons. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors. Cover the bowl and let the cabbage marinate for 2-3 hours or, if you have time, you can leave it overnight. This marination will help soften the cabbage and enhance the flavor.

Helpful tips: If you prefer a sweeter cabbage, you can skip the lemon juice. In this case, add a little sugar to the marinade to balance the acidity.

2. Preparing the Meat

In a large pot, heat 200 ml of oil over medium heat. Add the pork cubes and fry them until browned on all sides, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This step is essential to seal in the meat's juiciness.

Tip: You can also use beef or chicken, depending on your preferences. Additionally, for a more intense flavor, you can add spices such as paprika or garlic.

3. Boiling the Meat

Once the meat is browned, add a cup of water and let it simmer on low heat until the meat starts to soften (about 30 minutes). This step will help develop the flavors and make the meat more tender.

4. Adding the Cabbage

Now it's time to add the marinated cabbage to the pot. Mix well to combine the ingredients and cover with a lid. Let it steam for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the cabbage soften and absorb the flavors of the meat.

5. Finalizing the Dish

After the cabbage has softened, add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix again and add a cup of water if necessary. Simmer everything on low heat for 15-20 minutes until the cabbage is fully cooked and all the flavors have blended.

6. Serving

Finally, chop the bunch of dill finely and sprinkle it over the dish. This will add a fresh and aromatic touch to the dish. Serve the cabbage with meat alongside warm polenta, which will perfectly complement the flavors.

Serving suggestion: You can also add a spoonful of sour cream on top for extra creaminess.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is not only tasty but also healthy! Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, while pork provides essential proteins. Together, these ingredients create a balanced meal, perfect for those looking to enjoy a healthy diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use sauerkraut instead of fresh cabbage?
Of course! Sauerkraut will add an intense flavor and pleasant acidity, but you will need to adjust the amount of salt.

- How can I store the dish for later consumption?
You can keep the cabbage with meat in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat before serving to regain its flavor.

- What drinks pair well with this dish?
A light beer or a dry white wine are excellent choices that will complement the dish's taste.

Possible Variations

- Adding other vegetables: You can include carrots, potatoes, or celery to diversify the texture and nutrients.
- Spices and Herbs: Experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano to add a Mediterranean touch.

New cabbage with meat is more than just a dish - it is a celebration of spring, a recipe that brings family and friends together. Don't forget to put your personal touch on the dish and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!