Cabbage with smoked meat and garlic a la Costeo

Cabbage with Smoked Meat and Garlic a la Costeo - A Delicacy for the Whole Family

If you're looking for a simple, flavorful, and comforting recipe, cabbage with smoked meat and garlic a la Costeo is definitely the perfect choice. This recipe combines the rich aroma of cabbage with the intense flavor of smoked meat and a hint of garlic, creating a dish that will delight the taste buds of the entire family. Even the youngest members, like my little boy Răzvan, will be thrilled to taste this delicious preparation!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

- 2 medium cabbages
- 1 red bell pepper
- 3 medium onions
- 500 - 600 g smoked bacon (or smoked ribs)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Dried thyme (1-2 tablespoons)
- A few sprigs of dried dill
- 100 ml dry white wine (or semi-dry, according to preference)
- 2 tablespoons red pepper paste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- About 1 liter of hot water
- 4 large garlic cloves
- Oil (for greasing the dish)

Step by Step

1. Prepare the Cabbage
Start by washing the two cabbages under cold running water. Cut each cabbage into quarters, then slice each quarter into thin strips. This process will help the cabbage cook evenly and allow the flavors to penetrate better.

2. Salting and Massaging
Sprinkle salt over the cabbage and, using your fingers, gently press to extract its juice. This step is essential as the cabbage will increase in volume and soften, making it easier to cook.

3. Adding Flavors
Add pepper and thyme, mixing well to distribute the spices evenly. Set the cabbage aside while you prepare the other ingredients.

4. Preparing the Onions and Bell Pepper
Chop the onions and red bell pepper finely. These vegetables add sweetness and extra flavor to the dish. Add them to the cabbage and mix well, adjusting the salt to taste.

5. Preparing the Smoked Meat
Cut the smoked bacon into suitable pieces. This will add a rich and savory flavor to the dish.

6. Assembling the Dish
In a baking dish, add a little oil to the bottom, followed by the sprigs of dried dill. Then layer half of the cabbage, followed by the pieces of smoked bacon, and then the remaining cabbage. This is the time to add 1 liter of hot water, covering everything with a lid.

7. Boiling
Let it simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes. This step will help soften the cabbage and blend the flavors.

8. Preparing the Sauce
In a cup, mix the red pepper paste with the tomato paste and a little water. This sauce will add a touch of freshness and color to the dish. Once the cabbage has boiled, pour the sauce over it and mix gently.

9. Baking
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for about an hour. If you want a browned crust, you can leave the dish uncovered.

10. Adding Garlic and Wine
After an hour, crush the garlic cloves with the blade of a knife and chop them finely. Add them to the cabbage along with the white wine. Mix gently and return to the oven for another 30 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is delicious served warm, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. A tomato and onion salad can also perfectly complement the meal. If you want to impress, you can drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil and some balsamic vinegar on top before serving.

A Brief History

Cabbage with smoked meat is a traditional recipe, appreciated in many cultures for its ability to bring together simple ingredients and rich flavors. This combination was created out of the necessity to preserve food, and smoking became a popular technique to keep meat for longer periods. Today, this dish is considered a symbol of comfort and family meals.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Cabbage: Opt for fresh cabbages with crisp leaves and no blemishes. Sweet cabbage is ideal for this recipe, but you can experiment with sour cabbage for a tangy note.
- Smoked Meat: Smoked bacon adds a deep flavor, but you can substitute with smoked sausages or pork, depending on your preferences.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or potatoes, to expand the recipe and add different textures.

Nutritional Information

This cabbage with smoked meat recipe is rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and protein from the meat. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, depending on the amount of smoked meat used. It is a hearty dish, perfect for a winter meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I substitute bacon with another type of meat?
Yes, you can use sausages or chicken, but the final taste will be different.

- How can I make the recipe vegetarian?
You can omit the meat and add mushrooms or smoked tofu for a similar flavor.

- How long can this dish be stored?
It can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It is even tastier the next day when the flavors have had time to develop.

So, allow yourself to enjoy this simple and delicious recipe of cabbage with smoked meat and garlic a la Costeo, which will not only warm your heart but also bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones! Bon appétit!