New cabbage with smoked meat in a Roman pot

Delicious Recipe for Fresh Cabbage with Smoked Meat in a Roman Pot

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Servings: 6

Embark on a journey of flavor with this recipe for fresh cabbage with smoked meat, a dish that combines the deep, comforting flavors of cabbage with the savory taste of smoked meat, all carefully cooked in a Roman pot. The origins of this recipe are deeply rooted in culinary traditions, where simple ingredients transform into true delights through slow and attentive cooking.

Ingredients needed:
- 2 fresh cabbages (choose cabbages with crisp leaves and vibrant green color)
- 750 g smoked meat (this can be sausages, bacon, or any type of smoked meat you prefer)
- 1 onion (red onion is ideal for a subtle sweetness)
- 2-3 green onions (for an extra touch of freshness)
- 1 bunch of dill (finely chopped, for flavor)
- 1 cup tomato juice (optional, but recommended for a richer taste)
- Sweet paprika (for vibrant color)
- Bay leaves (for an aromatic fragrance)
- Peppercorns (for a spicy note)
- Salt and ground pepper (to taste)
- Oil (for sautéing the onion)

Step by step:

1. Prepare the cabbage: Start by slicing the cabbage into thin strips. Place the strips in a large bowl and sprinkle with salt. Let the cabbage sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the salt to penetrate and soften it. This process helps to extract the juice from the cabbage, making it more flavorful.

2. Sauté the onion: In a skillet, add a little oil and heat it well. Dice the onion into small pieces and sauté until it becomes translucent. This step will add a pleasant sweetness to the dish.

3. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed cabbage with the onion and finely chopped dill. Mix everything well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

4. Prepare the smoked meat: Rinse the smoked meat under cold water to remove excess salt and preservatives. Cut it into appropriately sized pieces. Then, place them in a pot with cold water and bring to a boil. After a few minutes, skim off the foam and remove the smoked meat from the water. This process will enhance the final taste of the dish.

5. Assemble in the Roman pot: In the Roman pot, add a first layer of cabbage, sprinkling a little paprika, a few peppercorns, and bay leaves on top. Season with ground pepper. On top, add half of the smoked meat. Repeat the process with another layer of cabbage, adding more paprika, pepper, peppercorns, and bay leaves. The final layer will be with the remaining smoked meat.

6. Add the liquid: Pour a cup of water over all the ingredients, keeping in mind that the cabbage will also release juice during cooking. This liquid will help cook the dish evenly.

7. Bake: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Cover the Roman pot with a lid and place it in the oven. Let it bake for about 1 hour. Finally, add the tomato juice and let it bake for another 30 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and everything is well integrated.

8. Serving: Serve warm, accompanied by hot peppers and freshly made polenta. This dish is perfect for family meals, offering a combination of flavors that will delight everyone.

Helpful tips:
- Variations: You can substitute the smoked meat with chicken or turkey for a lighter version. Additionally, adding diced potatoes can provide extra substance.
- Enhancements: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to intensify the flavors.
- Storage: The dish keeps well in the refrigerator and can be reheated the next day, having an even richer flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamins C and K, boosting the immune system and bone health. While smoked meat is rich in protein, it should be consumed in moderation due to its sodium content.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use pickled cabbage?
Yes, pickled cabbage can add a distinct flavor, but adjust the amount of salt accordingly.
- What type of smoked meat is best?
Any type of smoked meat works, but smoked sausages offer an intense flavor.

Now that you have all the necessary details, all that's left is to get cooking! Fresh cabbage with smoked meat in a Roman pot is a dish that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring warm and pleasant memories around the table. Enjoy your meal!