Braised cabbage with bacon and wide noodles

Sautéed cabbage with bacon and wide noodles is a delicious recipe that combines the rich flavors of vegetables with the crispy taste of bacon, resulting in a comforting and flavorful dish. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or a weekend lunch, making it an excellent choice for lovers of simple yet tasty meals. Additionally, it is a recipe that can be adapted according to personal preferences, giving you the opportunity to put your own stamp in the kitchen.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients
- ½ cabbage (about 300-400 grams), grated
- 100 grams bacon, diced
- 100 grams wide noodles (with egg)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 6 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ cups water
- Salt and pepper, to taste

A bit of history
The sautéed cabbage dish is appreciated in many cultures for its versatility and the fact that it can be easily adapted based on available ingredients. Cabbage, a vegetable rich in nutrients and vitamins, has been cultivated for thousands of years, and the combination with bacon adds a savory note, transforming a simple dish into a feast of flavors.

Preparation steps

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by washing the cabbage well and grating it. Make sure all ingredients are at hand: diced bacon, chopped onion, and diced tomato.

2. Sauté the bacon: In a large skillet, add the 6 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the bacon. Let it fry for 5-7 minutes until it becomes crispy and releases its flavors. It is important to stir occasionally to prevent burning.

3. Add the onion: Once the bacon is fried, add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté the onion with the bacon until it becomes translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes. This will add a sweet flavor to the dish.

4. Incorporate the cabbage: Add the grated cabbage to the skillet. Gently stir to combine the ingredients, then add the diced tomato, salt, and pepper to taste. Pour in 1 ½ cups of water and cover with a lid. Let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage should soften and absorb the flavors.

5. Cook the noodles: In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt. When the water boils, add the wide noodles and cook according to the package instructions (usually between 8-10 minutes). After cooking, drain them well.

6. Finalize the dish: When the cabbage is cooked, add the drained noodles to the skillet. Carefully mix to combine everything, allowing it to cook together for another 5 minutes. This step will allow the flavors to blend perfectly.

7. Serve: Once the dish is ready, you can transfer it to a large bowl or serve directly from the skillet. You can garnish with freshly chopped parsley or grated cheese for an extra touch of flavor.

Practical tips
- If you want to add a spicy note, you can include a bit of chili pepper or chili flakes during cooking.
- This recipe lends itself well to variations: you can replace the bacon with sausage or even a vegetarian option based on tofu or tempeh.
- Cabbage can also be cooked with other vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, to add more color and nutrients.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use red cabbage? Of course! Red cabbage will add a vibrant color and a slightly different taste.
- Can I make this recipe without bacon? Yes, you can omit the bacon and use extra olive oil to sauté the vegetables instead.

Nutritional values
This recipe is full of vitamins, especially vitamin C from the cabbage and tomatoes, and protein from the bacon. It is a healthy option, low in calories and high in fiber, ideal for a balanced diet.

Ideal servings
Sautéed cabbage with bacon and wide noodles pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a cup of vegetable soup for a complete lunch or dinner. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or herbal tea will perfectly complement the flavors!

Now that you have all the necessary details, you are ready to start cooking! Enjoy your meal!