Cabbage pies

Cabbage Pie - A Traditional and Comforting Recipe

Who doesn't love the pleasant aroma of a warm pie with a savory filling? Cabbage pies are an excellent choice for a family meal, a picnic, or simply a delicious snack. This recipe, which combines tradition with rich flavors, is easy to make and will surely bring joy to every corner of your home.

Preparation time: 40 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 8 pies

Ingredients

- 600 g whole wheat flour
- 400 g white flour type 000
- 2 cubes of fresh yeast
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 600 ml lukewarm water
- 2 teaspoons flax seeds
- 1 pickled cabbage (approximately 1 kg)
- Sunflower oil for sautéing
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- Green pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (for frying)
- 3 crushed garlic cloves

A Brief Story about Cabbage Pies

Cabbage pies have a long history, being a dish found in many cultures. They symbolize comfort and the warmth of home, often prepared during holidays or family gatherings. Pickled cabbage is not just a main ingredient but also a nutrient-rich food that brings a sour taste and pleasant texture, perfect for fillings.

Steps for Preparation

1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, combine the two types of flour. Make a well in the center and add the fresh yeast, sugar, and 200 ml of lukewarm water. Gently mix and let it sit for 10 minutes until the yeast starts to bubble.

2. Adding the ingredients:
Once the yeast is activated, add the salt, flax seeds, olive oil, and the remaining lukewarm water. Knead the dough until it becomes elastic and smooth. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy pie. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

3. Letting it rise:
Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes. A good idea is to use the turned-off oven, but warm.

4. Preparing the filling:
Meanwhile, chop the pickled cabbage into small pieces. In a pan, heat the sunflower oil and add the cabbage. Sauté over medium heat, adding caraway seeds and green pepper to taste. Cook until softened, about 10-15 minutes. This process will intensify the flavors and make the filling even tastier.

5. Forming the pies:
Once the dough has risen, divide it into 8 equal balls. Each ball is rolled out on a floured surface until thin. Place two tablespoons of cabbage filling in the center of each sheet and gather the edges of the dough, forming a round pie. Gently flatten the pies with your palm until they are about 1 cm thick.

6. Frying the pies:
Heat a non-stick pan over low heat and grease it with a mixture of olive oil and crushed garlic. Fry the pies on both sides until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes on each side. Repeat until all pies are done.

7. Delicious variations:
If you want to break the monotony, you can use the remaining dough to roll out 2 sheets, fill them with cabbage, and bake them in the oven at 180 degrees Celsius, brushed with the oil and garlic mixture. These baked pies will be just as delicious and will add a pleasant variety to the meal.

Useful Tips

- Dough maintenance: Make sure the water used for the dough is lukewarm, not hot, otherwise the yeast will be destroyed.
- Filling: You can experiment with other ingredients in the filling, such as mushrooms or cheese, for a richer version.
- Serving: These pies are delicious served warm, alongside fresh sour cream or a garlic yogurt sauce.

Nutritional Benefits

Cabbage pies are not only tasty but also very healthy. Pickled cabbage is an excellent source of probiotics, which contribute to digestive health. It also contains vitamins C and K, and is rich in antioxidants. The whole wheat flour used in the dough brings fiber, essential for a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh cabbage instead of pickled cabbage?
Yes, but you will need to sauté it longer to achieve a similar texture.

2. How can I store the pies?
You can store the fried pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in a pan or in the oven.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using olive oil and omitting animal products.

By adopting this pickled cabbage pie recipe in your kitchen, you will add not only a delicious dish but also a piece of culinary history, full of tradition and warmth. So put on your apron and get ready to impress your family and friends with these aromatic pies!