Sour and sweet cabbage with bacon

Sour and Sweet Cabbage with Smoked Bacon: A Tasty and Satisfying Dish

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

A land of flavors, a blend of traditions, and a recipe that has crossed generations, sour and sweet cabbage with smoked bacon is undoubtedly a dish that brings comfort and joy to every meal. This dish perfectly combines the sour taste of fermented cabbage with the sweetness of fresh cabbage and the savoriness of smoked bacon. It is an excellent choice for both everyday meals and special occasions.

Magical Ingredients:

- 1 fermented cabbage (about 1 kg)
- 1 sweet cabbage (about 1 kg)
- 300 g smoked bacon
- 1 jar of vegetable spread (400 g)
- 4 large tomatoes
- 1-2 tablespoons of dried dill
- Water (about 700 ml, or as needed)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Practical Tips about Ingredients:

- Fermented cabbage: Make sure the cabbage you use is well-fermented, with a balanced taste between sour and salty. If the taste is too salty, you can rinse the cabbage under cold running water.
- Bacon: Opt for smoked bacon, as it gives the dish a distinctive flavor. You can also use regular bacon or sausages if you want a variation.
- Vegetable spread: This is a paste made from roasted vegetables, rich in flavors. Choose a quality spread, preferably homemade, for an authentic taste.
- Tomatoes: Use well-ripened tomatoes, preferably from the garden. They will add juiciness and an extra flavor to the dish.

Preparation Technique:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by slicing the fermented cabbage and sweet cabbage into thin strips. This will allow the flavors to blend better during cooking.
2. Cutting the bacon: Cut the bacon into small strips and set it aside. This will allow the fat to melt during baking, infusing the cabbage with a delicious flavor.
3. Assembling: In a heat-resistant dish, place a layer of fermented cabbage, followed by a layer of sweet cabbage. Sprinkle the strips of bacon over the cabbage.
4. Vegetable spread: Mix the vegetable spread with 700 ml of water until you obtain a homogeneous mixture, then pour this mixture over the cabbage and bacon.
5. Tomatoes: Slice the tomatoes and arrange them evenly on top of the mixture. They will contribute to the juiciness of the dish.
6. Seasoning: Sprinkle the dried dill and add salt and pepper to taste. If the mixture seems too dry, add a little water.
7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 250 degrees Celsius. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven for about 60 minutes. This time allows the flavors to develop and penetrate the cabbage well.

Serving:

Sour and sweet cabbage with smoked bacon is delicious served hot. Offer it with a spoonful of sour cream on top and, for those who prefer a spicy touch, add freshly chopped chili pepper. This dish goes wonderfully with a slice of homemade, steaming bread to soak up the flavorful juice.

Nutritional Benefits:

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the cabbage, which is an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. The bacon provides protein and healthy fats, contributing to a filling and comforting dish.

Vegan Option:

If you want a vegan version, you can replace the bacon with mushrooms or smoked tofu, and the vegetable spread can be omitted to better control the ingredients. It’s a tasty and healthy option!

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can replace the bacon with any type of smoked meat or even sausages.

2. What other recipes can I make with fermented cabbage?
Fermented cabbage is versatile and can be used in stuffed cabbage rolls, salads, or even as a side dish for meat dishes.

3. How can I store sour and sweet cabbage with bacon for later?
You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat it well before serving.

A Personal Note:

The recipe for sour and sweet cabbage with bacon is one of my favorites, especially on chilly autumn days. It’s like a warm hug that reminds you of Sunday family meals. I encourage you to experiment and add your favorite ingredients, maybe a pinch of paprika or some olives, to give it a personal twist. Enjoy your meal!