Sweet cabbage with smoked sausages

Sweet cabbage with smoked sausages: a delicious and comforting recipe

In a world full of complicated recipes and sophisticated dishes, sometimes we need a simple meal that is full of flavor and tradition. Sweet cabbage with smoked sausages is a dish that brings back memories of family Sunday dinners, where the aroma of fresh ingredients filled the kitchen and each bite told a story. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate authentic tastes and the comfort of home-cooked food.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 3 kg of fresh cabbage
- 2 white onions
- 1 red onion
- 200 ml of sunflower or olive oil
- Ground pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- 3 bay leaves
- 5 tablespoons of vegetable tomato paste
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 8 pieces of smoked sausages
- Juice from 1/2 lemon

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the sausages: Start by preparing the smoked sausages. This step is essential for adding a rich flavor to the dish. Place the sausages on the oven grill and put a tray with water underneath. This trick will help the sausages cook evenly and stay juicy. Set the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and let them cook for about 20 minutes.

2. Preparing the cabbage: Meanwhile, wash the cabbage well and drain it. Chop it finely and massage it with a little salt and pepper. This process will help the cabbage release its juices and become softer. Let it rest for 10 minutes.

3. Sautéing the onions: In a deep skillet, heat 200 ml of oil over low heat. Add the finely chopped white and red onions and sauté them slowly until they turn golden and fragrant. This step will add depth of flavor to your dish.

4. Adding the cabbage: Once the onions are sautéed, add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Mix well to combine the ingredients, then add the bay leaves. Cover the skillet and let it cook over low heat for 35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage becomes soft and starts to wilt.

5. Adding the tomato paste: Once the cabbage is cooked, add the vegetable tomato paste. This will not only give the dish a vibrant color but will also add a note of acidity that will balance the flavors. Let the dish cook for a few more minutes in the oven for the flavors to meld.

6. Finishing the dish: Once the tomato paste is incorporated, chop the fresh dill and mix it with the cabbage. Squeeze the juice from 1/2 lemon for an extra touch of freshness. Place the sausages on top of the cabbage and turn off the oven. Let the dish rest for a few minutes in the oven to allow the flavors to combine.

7. Serving: Serve the sweet cabbage with smoked sausages alongside a generous portion of sour cream and hot peppers for an extra kick. Warm polenta is the ideal accompaniment to complete this comforting dish.

Useful tips:
- If you prefer a richer dish, you can fry the sausages with the onions before adding the cabbage. The aroma will be incredible.
- Sweet cabbage is also excellent if you sour it with a little vinegar or lemon juice during cooking, giving it a more pronounced taste.
- This recipe can be adapted according to your preferences. You can add carrots, bell peppers, or even potatoes to diversify the dish.
- Sweet cabbage with sausages pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a light craft beer.

Nutritional benefits:
Cabbage is a vegetable rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Regular consumption of cabbage can help maintain digestive health and strengthen the immune system. Sausages, while adding a savory taste, should be consumed in moderation due to their fat and salt content.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use pickled cabbage instead of fresh cabbage?
- Of course! Pickled cabbage will provide a different but delicious flavor. Make sure to adjust the amount of salt, as pickled cabbage is already salty.

2. How can I store sweet cabbage with smoked sausages?
- You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or skillet before serving.

3. What other ingredients can I add to vary the recipe?
- You can experiment with various vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, or you can replace the sausages with pork or chicken, depending on your preferences.

This sweet cabbage with smoked sausages recipe is not just a dish, but a culinary experience that can bring joy and comfort. So take your time, get involved in the process, and enjoy every step of this culinary journey! Bon appétit!