Braised cabbage with sausages

Sautéed Cabbage with Sausages - A Traditional Recipe Full of Flavor

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

When it comes to dishes that blend tradition with intense flavors, sautéed cabbage with sausages is definitely a favorite for many. This simple yet delicious recipe evokes family meals and warm moments spent with loved ones. Sautéed cabbage has been prepared for generations, each adding a personal touch, and today I will present my version, rich in flavors and a dash of love.

Ingredients:

- 1.5 kg of white cabbage
- 1 large onion
- 1 cup of olive oil (or sunflower oil)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- Dried or fresh thyme, to preference
- 200 g of sun-dried tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes)
- 400 g of fresh sausages, slightly smoked (preferably with thyme or basil)
- 1 tablespoon of water
- Polenta, for serving
- Hot pepper, for a touch of spice

Preparation technique:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by cleaning the cabbage. If it is a larger cabbage, you may need to remove the outer leaves. Wash it well under cold water. Then, cut the cabbage into thin strips using a sharp knife. This step is crucial as the thin strips will cook evenly and soften better during sautéing.

2. The onion:
In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This will add depth of flavor to your dish.

3. The cabbage:
Once the onion has softened, it's time to add the chopped cabbage. Sprinkle salt over the cabbage and massage it a little with your hands to soften it. This simple trick helps release the juices from the cabbage, which will enhance the flavor.

4. Seasoning:
Add the cabbage to the pot, stirring periodically to prevent sticking. When the cabbage becomes softer (about 15 minutes), you can add the diced tomatoes, thyme, and pepper. If you feel it's necessary, add a little more salt.

5. The sausages:
Meanwhile, prepare the sausages. Cut them into pieces about 10 cm long and score them on both sides with a knife to allow the juices to escape during cooking. In a pan, add 2 tablespoons of oil and a tablespoon of water, then add the sausages to fry. Cover the pan with a lid and fry them on both sides for 10-15 minutes until they are golden and crispy.

6. Combining the ingredients:
Once the sausages are ready, transfer them over the sautéed cabbage, adding the juices they released. Let everything simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes so the flavors can combine.

7. Serving:
Serve the sautéed cabbage with sausages alongside a portion of warm polenta and hot pepper. This combination not only brings an explosion of flavors but also a perfect texture. The soft polenta complements the salty taste of the sausages and the sweetness of the cabbage.

Tips and tricks:

- Cabbage varieties: If you like variety, you can try adding red cabbage or combining it with other vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers.
- Sausages: Choose quality sausages with natural ingredients. You can experiment with different flavors, such as garlic sausages or those with smoked paprika.
- Cook in advance: This recipe can be prepared ahead of time and keeps very well in the fridge. The taste gets even better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop.
- Variations: You can add other spices, such as sweet or hot paprika, to give an extra intensity.

Nutritional values:

A serving of sautéed cabbage with sausages contains approximately 450 calories. It is a nutritious meal, rich in fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C from the cabbage), and protein from the sausages. Additionally, cabbage is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use sauerkraut instead of fresh cabbage?
Yes, sauerkraut will add a sour taste to the dish, but make sure to reduce the amount of salt used.

2. How can I make the recipe easier?
You can use pre-cut cabbage from the store or choose pre-cooked sausages to reduce cooking time.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry red wine or a cold blonde beer are excellent options to accompany this meal. Additionally, a fruit compote or lemonade can add a pleasant contrast.

Sautéed cabbage with sausages is more than just a recipe; it is a culinary experience full of warmth and tradition. I hope you try this recipe and that each bite brings you joy!