Pickled cabbage with pork

Pickled Cabbage with Pork: A Traditional Recipe Full of Flavor

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6

The entire history of gastronomy is filled with dishes that remind us of times when food was a way to gather family around the table. Pickled cabbage with pork is one of those dishes, with deep roots in culinary tradition. This recipe not only perfectly combines flavors but also brings a sense of comfort and warmth in every bite.

Ingredients:

- 1 kg pickled cabbage (ideally of good quality, with proper fermentation)
- 500 g pork (opt for meat with little fat for added flavor)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (you can use natural tomato paste for a more intense taste)
- 1 large onion (preferably white, for a more pronounced sweetness)
- 2 bay leaves (for added aroma)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a few sprigs of fresh thyme, if available)
- 2-3 cups of water (enough to cover the ingredients)

Necessary utensils:

- A large pot
- A sharp knife
- A wooden spatula
- A measuring spoon

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by chopping the onion into small pieces. Make sure the pickled cabbage is well washed if it is too salty, to avoid an overly salty taste. Cut the pork into cubes of about 2-3 cm.

2. Sautéing the onion: Place the pot over medium heat and add a little oil (preferably sunflower oil or olive oil). Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden. The sautéed onion will add a sweet and savory flavor to your dish. This step is essential for developing the flavors.

3. Adding the meat: Once the onion is sautéed, add the cubed pork. Stir occasionally and let the meat brown slightly for about 5 minutes. This will seal in the juices of the meat and add a layer of flavor.

4. Including the cabbage: Chop the pickled cabbage into strips or smaller pieces, depending on your preference. Add the cabbage over the meat and onion, stirring gently. The pickled cabbage will become softer and absorb the flavors of the meat and spices.

5. Adding the liquid ingredients: Pour 2-3 cups of water into the pot, ensuring that the ingredients are covered. Add the tomato paste, bay leaves, and thyme. Mix well. These ingredients will give the dish a deep and delicious aroma.

6. Cooking on low heat: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the dish simmer slowly for about 45 minutes. Check occasionally and stir gently to prevent sticking. The water should reduce, and the cabbage and meat should blend harmoniously.

7. Serving: Once the dish is ready, remove the bay leaves and serve it warm, alongside a portion of polenta or fresh bread. You can add a spoonful of sour cream on top for extra creaminess.

Practical Tips:

- Variations: You can also add a few slices of smoked sausage for a more intense flavor. Additionally, grated carrot can add a touch of sweetness and a beautiful color.
- Cabbage care: If you prefer a crunchier cabbage, do not let it boil for too long; add water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
- Sweetening the taste: If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add a teaspoon of sugar during cooking to balance the acidity of the pickled cabbage.

Nutritional Values (per serving):

- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 5 g

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use fresh cabbage instead of pickled cabbage?
Although the classic recipe uses pickled cabbage, you can use fresh cabbage, but you will need to add a little vinegar or lemon juice to achieve the desired acidity.

2. How can I keep pickled cabbage longer?
Make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and crunchy.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a blonde beer are excellent options. Additionally, a fruit compote or herbal tea can add a pleasant contrast.

Pickled cabbage with pork is more than just a dish. It is a recipe that connects us to traditions, reminds us of family meals, and offers us the comfort of familiar flavors. I encourage you to try it and share it with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!