Braised cabbage with smoked bacon

Sautéed cabbage with smoked kaizer is a traditional dish that reminds us of family meals, full of flavors and warmth. This simple and delicious recipe is perfect for cool evenings when we crave comfort and hearty food. Let's see how we can transform a few simple ingredients into a tasty meal, step by step.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients
- 1 kg cabbage (preferably white)
- 500 g smoked kaizer
- 2 medium onions
- 1 large carrot
- 400 g tomatoes in puree (or fresh tomatoes, if you prefer)
- 1 Knorr cube (or other concentrated soup)
- 3 bay leaves
- Salt, pepper to taste
- Thyme (preferably dried)
- 3-4 tablespoons of oil
- Water to cover the ingredients

Brief history
Sautéed cabbage with smoked kaizer is a dish that has evolved over time in various culinary cultures, appreciated for its versatility and rich flavors. This recipe combines the principles of simple, rustic cooking with accessible ingredients, transforming into a comfort food ideal for chilly days.

Step by step: Preparing sautéed cabbage with smoked kaizer

1. Preparing the ingredients
- Start by washing the cabbage well and cutting it into thin strips. If the cabbage is very large, you can use half of it and keep the rest for other dishes. The cut cabbage will soften faster and absorb the flavors.
- Cut the kaizer into cubes or strips, depending on your preference. Frying the kaizer will add a smoky flavor to the dish, so don't skip this step.
- Chop the onion finely and grate the carrot to integrate it better into the mixture.

2. Cooking the kaizer
- In a deep pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cut kaizer. Let it fry until it becomes crispy and golden. This step is essential as the kaizer will release its fat and flavors, giving the cabbage a rich taste.

3. Adding the vegetables
- Once the kaizer is browned, add the chopped onion and grated carrot. Mix everything and let it sauté for 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
- At this point, you can add salt, pepper, and thyme to your taste. These spices will enhance the flavors.

4. Incorporating the cabbage
- Gradually add the cabbage, stirring constantly to ensure it mixes well with the other ingredients. This step may take a few minutes, but it's important for it to soften slightly and reduce in volume.

5. Adding the tomatoes and water
- Once the cabbage has softened, add the tomatoes in puree and the Knorr cube. These will provide a rich flavor and pleasant texture to the dish.
- Add enough water to cover the ingredients. Covering will help in the even cooking of the cabbage and the development of flavors.

6. Boiling and baking
- Let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step allows the cabbage to absorb all the flavors.
- After the cabbage has cooked on the stove, transfer everything to a baking dish and put it in the oven at a moderate heat (180-200 degrees Celsius) for 20-30 minutes. This optional step will help achieve a lightly browned crust on top.

Serving
Sautéed cabbage with smoked kaizer is served hot, directly from the oven. It is delicious alongside a slice of fresh bread, which can be used to soak up the rich sauce. You can also add a spoonful of sour cream on top for extra creaminess.

Practical tips for a perfect result
- Choose fresh cabbage: A younger cabbage will be sweeter and less bitter. Also, older cabbage may require a longer cooking time.
- Experiment with spices: If you like spicy food, you can add a bit of hot pepper or chili flakes.
- Variations: You can replace the kaizer with homemade sausages or even tofu for a vegetarian version. You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to diversify the recipe.

Nutritional information
This recipe offers a hearty meal, rich in fiber due to the cabbage, while the kaizer brings protein and healthy fats. A serving of sautéed cabbage with kaizer contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the portion served.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use pickled cabbage? Yes, you can use pickled cabbage, but you will need to reduce the salt in the recipe as pickled cabbage is already salty.
- What other dishes can I serve alongside? This sautéed cabbage pairs wonderfully with polenta or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with a fried egg on top for a hearty lunch.
- Can it be frozen? Yes, sautéed cabbage freezes well. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing it in airtight containers.

I wish you good appetite and hope you enjoy every bite of sautéed cabbage with smoked kaizer! This recipe will not only warm your heart but also bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones.