Braised cabbage with smoked meat and polenta (4-6 servings)

Sautéed Cabbage with Smoked Meat and Polenta – A Family Recipe Full of Flavor and Tradition

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6

When it comes to traditional dishes, sautéed cabbage with smoked meat and polenta is certainly a recipe that evokes pleasant memories and moments spent with family. It is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the texture of smoked meat with the sweetness of cabbage and the creaminess of polenta. Whether enjoyed at a festive meal or on an ordinary day, this dish is sure to bring a smile to your face.

A Brief Story About Sautéed Cabbage

Sautéed cabbage is a dish found in many cultures, with deep roots in culinary tradition. This vegetable, cultivated for over 4000 years, is appreciated not only for its taste but also for the nutritional benefits it offers. Cabbage is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, having anti-inflammatory properties and being considered a food that contributes to the prevention of certain ailments.

Ingredients

- 1 large cabbage (1.5-2 kg)
- 1-2 links of smoked homemade sausages
- 300 g smoked pork belly
- 1 large onion
- 1 large tomato
- 1 tablespoon of roasted pepper paste
- 1 splash of oil
- Thyme (to taste)
- Dill (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step by Step – Your Kitchen Guide

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Start by preparing all the ingredients you need. Cut the sausages and pork belly into not-too-thin slices to enjoy their texture in the dish. The onion should be peeled and finely chopped. The cabbage, of course, will be the star of this dish. Remove the outer leaves, wash it well, and cut off the core, then chop it into suitable strips. Don't worry, the cabbage will soften during cooking.

Step 2: Sautéing the Onion

In a large pot, add the splash of oil and sauté the finely chopped onion over medium heat. Let it become slightly golden, which will enhance the aroma. The sautéed onion will add a delicious base for the rest of the ingredients.

Step 3: Adding the Smoked Meat

When the onion is ready, add the slices of sausages and pork belly. Cook them for a few minutes, stirring constantly, until the smoked meat is lightly browned. This is the perfect moment to add the pepper and the roasted pepper paste, which will add color and flavor.

Step 4: Cooking the Cabbage

Now it's time to add the chopped cabbage, a little at a time, stirring constantly. It will start to release its juices, so don't worry! Add thyme, either in sprigs or chopped, depending on your preference. If you like, you can add dill, but personally, I prefer to leave it out.

Step 5: Finishing the Dish

As the cabbage cooks, add the peeled and diced tomato at the end of the cooking process. This step will give the dish a fresh note and a splash of acidity. Taste and adjust with salt if necessary, but be careful, as the smoked meat will already bring some saltiness to the plate.

Step 6: Serving

Sautéed cabbage is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it alongside warm polenta, which you can accompany with sour cream and, for those who love a bit of spice, with hot peppers. The polenta adds a creamy texture that perfectly complements the sautéed cabbage.

Practical Tips

- Cabbage: Choose a fresh cabbage with firm leaves for the best results. Winter cabbage is ideal as it is crunchier and sweeter.
- Smoked Meat: If you don’t have access to homemade sausages, you can use store-bought smoked sausages or even bacon to achieve the same delicious flavor.
- Cooking the Cabbage: Don’t rush this step! Slow cooking will transform the cabbage into a sweet and savory dish.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, to enrich the dish. Additionally, you can use red cabbage for a more colorful variant.

Nutritional Benefits

Cabbage is a low-calorie vegetable, containing about 25 kcal per 100g. It is rich in vitamins C, K, and various minerals, making it an excellent food for supporting the immune system and maintaining bone health. The smoked meat adds a boost of protein and fat, providing the energy needed for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use pickled cabbage instead of fresh cabbage? Yes, but you will need to adjust the amount of salt, as pickled cabbage is already salty.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians? You can adapt the recipe by eliminating the smoked meat and adding plant-based proteins such as tofu or seitan.
- How can I store leftovers? Sautéed cabbage keeps well in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

This sautéed cabbage with smoked meat and polenta recipe is more than just a meal. It is a culinary experience that brings together tradition and flavor, perfect for any occasion. I hope you enjoy every bite and create delicious memories with your loved ones!