Oven-baked cabbage with drumsticks

Oven-baked cabbage with chicken drumsticks: an unforgettable taste from childhood

Who doesn’t fondly remember the lavish meals of childhood, when food was cooked with love and patience? Today, I invite you to discover a recipe that combines tradition with enticing flavors: oven-baked cabbage with chicken drumsticks. This simple and delicious recipe is an excellent choice for a hearty dinner, as well as a perfect way to reminisce about the beautiful moments spent with loved ones.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 3 kg white cabbage
- 1 kg chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Oil for sautéing the cabbage
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Lemon salt (to taste)

Recipe preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning the cabbage. Slice it finely, making sure to remove the tough core. Fresh cabbage is the key to a tasty dish. Once sliced, place the cabbage in a large bowl and massage it with salt and lemon salt. This process will help soften the leaves and enhance the flavor.

2. Cleaning the drumsticks: Wash the drumsticks well under cold running water, ensuring that you remove any impurities. After cleaning, let them drain well.

3. Sautéing the cabbage: In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the massaged cabbage and sauté for about 10-15 minutes, until it softens. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Finally, add pepper to taste and the tomato paste, mixing well to combine the flavors.

4. Arranging the drumsticks: In a baking dish, lay down an even layer of sautéed cabbage. On top of this base, place the drumsticks, which you can season with salt and pepper. They will absorb the flavors from the cabbage during baking, resulting in a delicious outcome.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 40 minutes. After this period, remove the foil and let the drumsticks brown for 20 minutes. Don’t forget to turn them occasionally for even browning!

6. Serving: Once the drumsticks are golden and appetizing, take the dish out of the oven. Serve the dish warm, alongside fresh breadsticks and, if you like, add some hot peppers for a bit of spice.

Practical tips:
- Cabbage: Choose fresh cabbage with firm leaves. Younger cabbage is sweeter and crunchier, ideal for this recipe.
- Drumsticks: You can also use other types of meat, such as chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the meat.
- Tomato paste: If you want a more intense flavor, you can add some chopped fresh tomatoes or even a bit of white wine, which will add a note of complexity.
- Side dishes: This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or mashed potatoes.

Nutritional benefits: Cabbage is a vegetable rich in vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals, also having antioxidant properties. It is low in calories, making it an excellent option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use red cabbage? Of course! Red cabbage will add a vibrant color to your dish.
- Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet? You can adapt the recipe by eliminating the drumsticks and adding tofu or other plant-based proteins.
- How can I store leftovers? The dish keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

This recipe for oven-baked cabbage with chicken drumsticks is not just a delicious meal but also a vivid memory of warmth and comfort from childhood. I invite you to try it and share it with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!