Sweet cabbage with chicken

Delicious Sweet Cabbage Recipe with Chicken

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Cabbage is a wonderful ingredient, rich in nutrients and versatile in dishes. This sweet cabbage recipe with chicken is not only delicious but also healthy. The dish is perfect for a family meal, full of flavors and nutritional benefits. Additionally, it is an excellent choice for those looking to adopt a balanced diet.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 kg cabbage (a piece or half of a larger cabbage)
- 3-4 tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 onion
- 500 g chicken (thighs, wings, back, or a combination)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons oil (preferably olive oil or another vegetable oil)
- 1 bay leaf
- 10-12 peppercorns
- Salt, ground pepper, and paprika (sweet or spicy, according to preference)
- Greens (parsley and, if available, dill)

A bit of history:

Cabbage is a staple ingredient in many culinary cultures around the world, with a history that dates back thousands of years. Its roots can be found in various traditions, and in modern cuisine, it is often used in hot dishes, stews, or as a side. Sweet cabbage with meat is a comforting dish that brings together the natural flavors of vegetables and the richness of meat, creating a delicious and nourishing meal.

Preparing the recipe:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion. This will add a special flavor to the dish. Slice the cabbage into thin strips and rub it with a little salt to extract its juices. This step will help the cabbage soften more quickly during cooking.

2. Sautéing the onion:
In a large pot, add a tablespoon of oil and a little salt. Heat over medium heat, adding the chopped onion. Sauté until it becomes translucent and slightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential, as the onion will add depth of flavor.

3. Adding the cabbage:
Once the onion is sautéed, add the salted cabbage on top. Mix well and add 1-2 cups of water, along with the peppercorns and bay leaf. Cover the pot and let the cabbage simmer on low heat for about 20-30 minutes, until it starts to soften.

4. Preparing the meat:
In a separate pan, add a tablespoon of oil and lightly sauté the pieces of chicken. Just give them a golden color; they don’t need to be fully cooked, as they will finish cooking with the cabbage. Once the meat is browned, add it over the cabbage, along with the diced bell pepper.

5. Finalizing the dish:
After the cabbage has softened, add the chopped tomatoes (either diced or sliced, according to preference) and the tomato paste. Mix well and let everything simmer on low heat for another 10-15 minutes. If necessary, you can add a little water to prevent burning.

6. Seasoning:
Taste the dish and season it according to your preferences with salt, ground pepper, and sweet or spicy paprika. Finally, add the finely chopped greens (parsley or dill, depending on what you have on hand). Mix well and let it cook for a few more minutes to blend the flavors.

Serving suggestions:
Sweet cabbage with chicken is a dish that can be served simply or alongside a serving of warm polenta. For an extra touch of flavor, you can add a spoonful of sour cream on top when serving. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade pairs perfectly with this dish.

Nutritional benefits:
Cabbage is a vegetable rich in vitamins (especially vitamin C), minerals, and fiber, contributing to healthy digestion. Chicken provides quality protein, essential for the body. This recipe is ideal for a balanced meal, being low in calories, especially if you use skinless chicken and olive oil.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use sauerkraut instead of fresh cabbage?
Yes, sauerkraut can be an interesting alternative, but it will change the flavor of the dish, bringing a tangy note.

- What other types of meat can I use?
You can use turkey or even pork, depending on your preferences. Each type of meat will add a distinct flavor.

- How can I adapt the recipe for a vegetarian diet?
You can replace the meat with vegetables like mushrooms or tofu and add more vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini.

- What other side dishes go well with sweet cabbage?
Polenta is a classic side, but you can also opt for rice or baked potatoes.

In conclusion, sweet cabbage with chicken is a simple and healthy recipe, perfect for any meal. This combination of ingredients creates a comforting dish, full of flavors and nutritional benefits. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite spices and add a personal touch to your recipe! Enjoy your meal!