Cabbage with rice and grilled pork neck

Cabbage with Rice and Grilled Pork Neck - A Savory and Satisfying Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

When it comes to traditional dishes, few are as comforting as cabbage with rice and grilled pork neck. This recipe combines crunchy textures and the rich flavors of the ingredients, paying humble yet delicious tribute to the main ingredient - cabbage. Over generations, this dish has been lovingly prepared in many households, each with its own variation, but the essence remains the same: a tasty and satisfying meal.

Necessary Ingredients

- 1 large, well-formed cabbage
- 4 dried onions
- 1 carrot
- 200 g rice (preferably long-grain)
- 5 tablespoons of pepper paste
- 250 ml broth
- Salt, pepper, and thyme to taste
- 3-4 tablespoons of lard (or olive oil, if you prefer)
- Pork neck (enough for the desired servings)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Cabbage
Start by preparing the cabbage. Wash the leaves well and then shred them. Once done, add a teaspoon of salt and mix well. This step helps remove excess water from the cabbage, intensifying the flavor. Cover both the cabbage and the bowl with a kitchen towel and let it sit for 30 minutes.

Practical tip: If you want sweeter cabbage, let it sit longer. The salt helps break down the plant cells, leading to a more pleasant flavor.

2. Cooking the Mixture
In a large pot, heat the lard (or oil) over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and grated carrot. Let them sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become translucent. The aroma of the sautéed onion will give the dish a special flavor.

Caution: Do not let the onion burn, as this will negatively affect the final taste.

3. Adding the Ingredients
Add the pepper paste and mix well. This will add a vibrant splash of color and an intense flavor. Then, squeeze the cabbage to remove excess water and add it to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme to taste.

Let the mixture simmer over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Personal suggestion: If you want a deeper flavor, add a teaspoon of sweet or smoked paprika for an extra kick.

4. Boiling the Rice
Meanwhile, boil the rice separately in salted water until it is three-quarters cooked. The rice should not be fully cooked, as it will continue to absorb flavors in the oven. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

5. Combining the Ingredients
Once the cabbage is cooked, add a cup of broth and the boiled rice. Mix all the ingredients well, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed in the mixture. Let it simmer together for another 5 minutes, then adjust the seasoning if necessary.

6. Baking in the Oven
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Transfer the cabbage and rice mixture into a baking dish or casserole. Cover with a lid or aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.

Note: If you want a crispy crust, remove the lid in the last 5 minutes of baking.

7. Grilling the Pork Neck
While the cabbage is in the oven, prepare the grilled pork neck. Season with salt and pepper and grill on a well-heated grill until nicely browned and juicy, about 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the meat.

Serving
Once all the ingredients are ready, serve the cabbage with rice alongside the grilled pork neck. Add a spoonful of sour cream on top for extra creaminess and flavor.

Serving suggestion: Try pairing this dish with a glass of dry white wine or a cold beer, which will perfectly complement the flavors.

Nutritional Benefits
This recipe for cabbage with rice and grilled pork neck is not only tasty but also nutritious. Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, while rice provides essential carbohydrates for energy. Pork neck, especially when grilled, offers quality protein.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can replace the pork neck with chicken breast or beef, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.

3. What are possible variations of the recipe?
You can add mushrooms, zucchini, or other vegetables to the cabbage mixture to make it even more nutritious.

Conclusion
This recipe for cabbage with rice and grilled pork neck is more than just a meal; it is a celebration of simple yet vibrant ingredients. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a comforting dinner, I am sure it will be a hit among your loved ones. So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and enjoy the magic of cooking! Bon appétit!