Oven-baked cabbage with ribs

Oven-baked cabbage with smoked bacon: a comforting delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Who doesn’t fondly remember lavish meals where cabbage with bacon was the star of the evening? This traditional recipe is not only a delicious choice but also a perfect combination of flavors, bringing together the taste of smoked meat and the sweetness of cabbage. Oven-baked cabbage with bacon is a recipe that has passed through generations, enveloping meals in the warmth and comfort of home.

In preparing this dish, you will discover not just a simple recipe but also a way to bring flavor into everyday life. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

- 1 kg sweet cabbage, finely chopped
- 500 g smoked bacon, diced
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 4 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- Salt to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons sunflower oil

Step by step:

1. Preparing the cabbage: Start by finely chopping the cabbage and placing it in a large bowl. Sprinkle a little salt over the cabbage and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This step helps to remove excess water and improve the flavor of the cabbage.

2. Boiling the cabbage: After the cabbage has rested with the salt, place it in a large pot and add enough water to cover it. Boil the cabbage over medium heat for about 1 hour, or until it becomes soft. Don’t worry if the cabbage slightly changes color; that’s part of the process.

3. Frying the bacon: In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil and add the diced bacon. Fry until golden and crispy. Once fried, remove them to a paper towel to absorb the excess oil.

4. Preparing the onion sauce: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until translucent. Then, add 2 tablespoons of water and let it simmer until the water evaporates.

5. Creating the sauce: In a bowl, mix the flour with 2 tablespoons of water to form a smooth paste. Add the tomato paste, pepper, sweet paprika, and mix well. Pour this mixture over the sautéed onion and deglaze everything with a cup of the cabbage cooking liquid. Let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes until it thickens slightly.

6. Assembling the dish: In a baking dish, add the boiled cabbage, fried bacon, and onion sauce. Adjust with salt if necessary, and add thyme, bay leaves, and tomato slices for garnish. Gently mix to evenly distribute the ingredients.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the dish in the oven for about 30 minutes. This step will help the flavors to combine and intensify, giving them a special taste.

Serving suggestions:

Cabbage with bacon is wonderful served warm, alongside creamy polenta or a slice of homemade bread. You can also add a fresh summer salad for a crunchy and refreshing contrast. An excellent recommendation would be a glass of dry white wine or a pale beer to perfectly complement the rich flavors of the dish.

Nutritional benefits:

This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious! Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, which supports digestion. The smoked bacon adds a significant protein content, but it’s best to consume it in moderation due to its fat content.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I substitute the bacon with another type of meat? Absolutely! You can use pork, beef, or even sausage for a different flavor.
- How can I make this recipe easier to digest? You can add a little apple cider vinegar or lemon juice at the end to aid digestion.
- Are there vegetarian options? You can omit the meat and add mushrooms or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.

Possible variations:

If you want to experiment, add some slices of bell pepper or carrot for an extra splash of color and sweetness. You can also try adding spices like cumin or allspice for an exotic touch.

Unique details:

This recipe is a perfect example of comfort food that will make you feel at home, no matter where you are. Cabbage with bacon is more than just a dish; it’s a story of tradition, of moments spent with loved ones, and of abundant flavor.

In conclusion, oven-baked cabbage with bacon is a dish that blends simplicity with refinement, bringing goodness and warmth in every bite. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and adapt it to your liking! Enjoy your meal!