Sweet cabbage with smoked meat in the oven (2)

Sweet cabbage with smoked meat in the oven – a comforting recipe, full of flavor, that combines tradition with the rich aromas of quality ingredients. This dish is not just a simple meal, but a true culinary story passed down from generation to generation. Cabbage, a humble ingredient, becomes the star of this recipe, transforming into a delight that will please the taste buds of the whole family.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:

- 2 heads of cabbage
- 2 bell peppers (red or green)
- 800 g of smoked pork ribs or smoked sausages
- 3 onions
- 2 tomatoes (or 200 g of homemade tomato paste)
- 6 cloves of garlic
- 1-2 tablespoons of thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Dried dill (optional)
- 100 ml of white wine

Preparation of ingredients:

1. Cabbage: Choose fresh cabbage with crispy leaves. Wash the cabbage heads well, then cut them in half and chop them finely. Rub the cabbage with salt and thyme, letting it soften for 20 minutes. This step helps release the juices from the cabbage, making it tastier.

2. Smoked meat: If using pork ribs, ensure they are of good quality. Wash the meat and cut it into suitable pieces. If choosing sausages, slice them into rounds.

3. Vegetables: Chop the onion and bell peppers finely. These ingredients will add sweetness and flavor to the dish.

Cooking process:

1. Layering the cabbage: In a pot or baking dish, place a layer of chopped cabbage. Add a layer of pork ribs or sausages, then repeat the procedure until all ingredients are used, ensuring the cabbage is on top.

2. Adding water: Pour boiling water over the cabbage, just enough to cover it. This step is essential to allow the cabbage to cook evenly and absorb the flavors from the meat.

3. Baking: Cover the pot with a lid and place it in a preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius. Let it simmer for 30 minutes. After this time, add the tomato paste or diced tomatoes and stir gently.

4. Wine and garlic: 20 minutes before removing the dish from the oven, add the white wine and finely chopped garlic. The wine will add depth of flavor, and the garlic will provide an unmistakable taste.

5. Finishing the dish: Let the cabbage cook and the flavors meld, then remove it from the oven. Once the dish has cooled slightly, it is ready to serve!

Useful tips:

- For an even more intense flavor, you can add other spices, such as sweet paprika or hot pepper. These will add extra aroma and a bit of heat.

- Vary the ingredients: If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with mushrooms or roasted vegetables, adapting the recipe to your personal tastes.

- Serving: This sweet cabbage with smoked meat pairs wonderfully with warm polenta or a slice of homemade bread. A fresh summer salad or pickles can perfectly complement the meal.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

This recipe is rich in nutrients, thanks to the combination of cabbage and vegetables. Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamins C and K, while the smoked meat adds essential protein. Approximately, a serving has around 450 calories, depending on the amount of meat used.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use pickled cabbage?: Yes, but reduce the amount of added salt, as pickled cabbage is already salty.

- What can I serve alongside?: A dry white wine or craft beer pairs perfectly with this dish.

- How long does it keep?: It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be easily reheated.

Sweet cabbage with smoked meat in the oven is more than just a simple recipe; it is a culinary experience that combines tradition with the satisfaction of cooking at home. Feel free to share this dish with loved ones, turning every meal into a celebration of flavors. Enjoy your meal!