Turkey breast wrapped in sour cabbage leaves

Turkey breast wrapped in sour cabbage leaves - A delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

If you are looking for a recipe that combines flavor and tradition, turkey breast wrapped in sour cabbage leaves is the perfect choice. This dish is not only tasty but also full of culinary memories, bringing a taste of nostalgia and comfort to your table. The sour cabbage, with its distinct aroma, embraces the tender meat of the turkey, giving it a unique flavor.

The history of this recipe dates back to ancient times when people used to preserve food through fermentation, and sour cabbage became a staple ingredient in many dishes. This is not just a recipe but a connection to the culinary traditions of our ancestors, who knew how to transform simple ingredients into delicious meals.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 whole turkey breast or 1 turkey breast cut in half (if large)
- 1 sour cabbage (or 2 if the breast is cut in half)
- A few tablespoons of oil (olive oil or sunflower oil)
- Sour cabbage juice (enough to cover the bottom of the dish)

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by separating the cabbage leaf by leaf, being careful not to tear them. If the cabbage is too rigid, you can blanch it for a few minutes to make it more flexible. Keep in mind that each cabbage leaf will wrap the meat, so you need enough leaves to create a tasty "nest".

2. Preparing the turkey breast: If your turkey breast is large, cut it in half. This will allow you to use more cabbage leaves. If you have a smaller turkey breast, you can use it whole. Make sure the breast is cleaned of skin and any fat.

3. Wrapping the breast: Place the turkey breast on a cabbage leaf and wrap it well, ensuring it is completely covered. You can use another cabbage leaf to wrap it better, creating a tight package. This step is essential, as the cabbage will keep the meat moist and add flavor.

4. Preparing the baking dish: In a heat-resistant dish, add a few tablespoons of oil and a little sour cabbage juice. This will be the ideal environment to cook the turkey breast, ensuring it does not dry out. Carefully place the wrapped turkey in the dish.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Cover the dish with aluminum foil or a lid, so that the steam stays inside, maintaining moisture. Let it bake for about an hour. In the last 15 minutes, remove the foil to let it brown a little.

6. Serving: Once the turkey breast is ready, carefully remove it from the dish and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it alongside pieces of cabbage from the roast, and for an extra flavor boost, you can add a mustard sauce or mashed potatoes. These will perfectly complement the flavor of the sour cabbage.

Useful tips:

- Variations: You can experiment with different types of meat, such as chicken breast or even pork. Each variant will bring a distinct and interesting taste.
- Secret ingredient: Adding aromatic herbs like thyme or rosemary to the oil and sour cabbage juice mixture will enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Preservation: If you have leftovers, you can keep them in the fridge for 2-3 days. It is just as delicious reheated the next day.

Nutritional benefits:

Turkey breast is an excellent source of lean protein, making it ideal for a healthy diet. Sour cabbage is rich in vitamins, minerals, and probiotics, supporting digestive health. This recipe combines essential nutrients, offering a nourishing and satisfying meal.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use fresh cabbage instead of sour cabbage?
Yes, but you will need to add a little salt and vinegar to achieve a similar flavor.

2. What side dishes go best with it?
Mashed potatoes, a seasonal salad, or creamy polenta are excellent accompaniments for this dish.

3. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a little chili pepper or chili flakes to the oil mixture for an extra kick.

I conclude with a personal note: this recipe for turkey breast wrapped in sour cabbage leaves was passed down to me by my grandmother, who lovingly prepared it on cool autumn days. Every bite brings back memories of family meals and stories told around the table. I encourage you to try this recipe and bring a part of culinary traditions into your own kitchen. Enjoy your meal!