Braised cabbage with brisket

Braised cabbage with pork belly - a comforting and delicious dish that evokes memories of family Sunday meals, when everyone gathers around the table to enjoy traditional delicacies. This simple and tasty recipe combines the rich flavors of sour cabbage with the savory taste of smoked meat, creating a dish that will delight your senses and warm you on chilly days.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients:

- 2 pieces of pork belly (approximately 500 g)
- 1 ½ sour cabbage (approximately 1 kg)
- 200 g smoked bacon, diced
- 200 g tomato juice
- 1 bunch of fresh dill (or 2 tablespoons dried dill)
- 2 bay leaves
- ½ teaspoon whole pepper
- Salt to taste

Necessary utensils:

- A deep pot or baking dish
- A kitchen knife
- A wooden spoon
- A spatula
- A serving dish

Step by step for perfect braised cabbage

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by cleaning and chopping the sour cabbage. If you have a whole cabbage, cut it into quarters, remove the core, and then slice it into thin strips. Make sure you have all the ingredients at hand to make your cooking easier and more enjoyable.

2. Sauté the smoked bacon: In a large pot, add the diced smoked bacon. Place the pot over medium heat and let the bacon brown slightly, releasing its flavors. This step is essential to infuse the cabbage with a rich and savory taste.

3. Add the cabbage: Once the bacon starts to brown, add the chopped cabbage. Mix well with a wooden spoon to combine the flavors. Let the cabbage sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften.

4. Season: Add the tomato juice, chopped dill, bay leaves, and whole pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices. If the cabbage is very sour, you can add a little water to balance the taste.

5. Add the pork belly: Carefully place the pieces of pork belly on top of the cabbage. This will add extra flavor to the dish, and its juices will enrich the taste of the cabbage during baking.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil and place everything in the oven. Let it bake for 50-60 minutes. The meat should be tender and easily pull away from the bone, while the cabbage should be well cooked and aromatic.

7. Serving: Once the dish is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve it warm, alongside steaming polenta and fresh hot peppers, which will add a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

A brief history of the recipe

Braised cabbage is a traditional dish that has stood the test of time, being part of the culinary heritage of many cultures. It has been appreciated not only for its delicious taste but also for its nutritional properties. Cabbage, being a seasonal vegetable, has been used for generations to preserve food and ensure a healthy diet during winter.

Useful tips

- Choose the cabbage: If you use fresh cabbage, opt for a white type, as it will sauté better. Sour cabbage already has a more intense flavor and will add a distinct note to the dish.
- Tricks for better taste: You can add some cumin seeds or chopped garlic for extra aroma.
- Variations: If you want to experiment, add some grated carrots or diced potatoes to the cabbage mixture to enrich the dish.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I replace the pork belly with another type of meat? Yes, you can use chicken or turkey for a lighter version, or even beef for a different taste.
- How can I store leftovers? Braised cabbage keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little water to prevent sticking.

Nutritional benefits

Cabbage is a vegetable rich in vitamins and minerals, being an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, fiber, and antioxidants. Additionally, pork provides high-quality protein, essential for maintaining muscle mass.

Serving suggestions

Besides polenta, you can accompany this dish with a fresh cabbage salad or assorted pickles, which will add a contrast of textures and flavors. Also, a glass of red wine or a light beer would perfectly complement the meal.

Whether you prepare this braised cabbage with pork belly for a special occasion or simply to indulge in a delicious dish, every bite will be a true pleasure! Enjoy your meal!