Sauerkraut and rice pudding

Hearty Cabbage and Rice Pudding

In the heart of traditional cuisine, a simple and comforting recipe elegantly takes its place: cabbage and rice pudding. It is a dish that brings together intense flavors and varied textures, offering a hearty meal full of vitamins. Discover with me how to create this delicacy that not only delights the taste buds but also brings a touch of nostalgia.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total: 80 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

- 1 large sour cabbage or 2 smaller ones
- 1 and a half cups of rice
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 onion
- 1 carrot
- A bunch of fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 4 tablespoons of tomato paste
- Olive oil
- Salt and ground pepper
- 2-3 bay leaves
- Water

Preparing the Pudding

1. Preparing the Cabbage
Start by washing the sour cabbage under cold water. If it is very salty, let it soak for 30 minutes, changing the water a few times. After it has soaked, drain the cabbage well and cut it into thin strips. Sour cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants, making it an excellent ingredient for the immune system.

2. Seasoning the Cabbage
In a large bowl, drizzle the cabbage with a little olive oil and add dried thyme and pepper. Mix well to combine the flavors. Olive oil adds a touch of refinement, while thyme complements the sour taste of the cabbage.

3. Preparing the Rice
Clean and wash the vegetables: finely chop the onion, dice the peppers, and grate the carrot. Heat a little oil in a pot and add the vegetables, letting them sweat for about 10 minutes until soft. This process helps intensify the flavors, bringing a richer taste to the final dish.

4. Adding the Rice
After the vegetables have softened, add the washed rice and one cup of water. Mix well and let it cook for 10 minutes until the rice starts to absorb the liquid. This is the moment when the rice becomes an essential ingredient in creating the creamy texture of the pudding.

5. Seasoning the Rice
Add the finely chopped dill and season with salt. Dill, in addition to its distinctive aroma, also provides digestive benefits, perfectly complementing the rich taste of the rice.

Assembling the Pudding

6. Cabbage Layer
In a greased baking dish, place half of the sour cabbage. On top, add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, which brings a sweet-sour contrast and a vibrant color to the dish.

7. Rice Layer
The next layer is the rice, which you spread evenly over the cabbage. It will absorb the flavors and create a perfect bond between the two ingredients.

8. Finalizing the Pudding
Add the remaining sour cabbage on top, followed by another 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Place a few bay leaves for an extra flavor boost. Pour water until the ingredients are covered and place the dish in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 60 minutes.

9. Serving
Once the pudding is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Season with freshly chopped dill and serve with warm polenta and hot pepper for a delicious contrast. This combination is not only tasty but also comforting, bringing a touch of warmth to every plate.

Practical Tips

- Preparing the Cabbage: If using fresh cabbage, you can add a little vinegar to simulate the sour taste.
- Variations: You can experiment by adding minced meat (chicken, pork, or beef) between the layers of cabbage and rice for a heartier version.
- Serving: This pudding is just as delicious cold, so you can prepare it a day in advance and serve it the next day.
- Pairings: This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or yogurt to add a note of freshness.

Nutritional Benefits

Cabbage and rice pudding is not only delicious but also highly nutritious. Sour cabbage is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and probiotics that support digestive health. Rice provides complex carbohydrates, essential for energy, while the vegetables add fiber and essential nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can whole grain rice be used?
Yes, but the cooking time will be different, so make sure to follow the cooking instructions for whole grain rice.

- Can I use fresh cabbage?
Of course! You will get a different, but equally delicious taste.

- How can I store the pudding?
It keeps very well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

Enjoy this delicious cabbage and rice pudding recipe! It is a dish that will surely bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones and turn ordinary meals into unforgettable moments. Bon appétit!