Oven-baked cabbage

Oven-baked cabbage: a delicious and comforting recipe

Oven-baked cabbage is a dish that beautifully combines tradition and flavor. This simple and quick recipe brings a savory combination of ingredients to your table, perfect for a cozy dinner or a hearty lunch. Whether you serve it as a main course or as a side dish, oven-baked cabbage is sure to impress your loved ones.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 cabbage (approximately 1 kg)
- 200 g rice (approximately 1 cup)
- 250 g mushrooms (approximately 1/2 package)
- 1 large onion
- 2 tablespoons pepper paste
- 2 large tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon vegetable seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh dill, for garnish
- 50 g margarine (for greasing the dish)

Necessary utensils

- An oven
- A baking tray or heat-resistant dish
- A frying pan
- A cutting board
- A knife
- A wooden spoon

Step by step

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by slicing the cabbage into thin strips. Ideally, you should shred it so that it cooks evenly and integrates perfectly into the dish. Once you are done with the cabbage, finely chop the onion and dice the mushrooms. Slice the tomatoes, making sure to choose ripe ones for a rich flavor.

Step 2: Cooking the cabbage

In a large frying pan, add a little oil and sauté the cabbage. Sprinkle the teaspoon of vegetable seasoning to add flavor. Sauté the cabbage for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and reduces in volume.

Step 3: Cooking the mushrooms

In another frying pan, add a little oil and sauté the onion until it becomes translucent. Then add the diced mushrooms and continue to cook until they release their water and become slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Finally, add the two tablespoons of pepper paste and mix well, allowing the sauce to reduce a bit.

Step 4: Preparing the rice

Meanwhile, cook the rice according to the package instructions. The rice added to the dish will contribute to its consistency by absorbing the flavors from the vegetables. After the rice is cooked, drain it and add it to the frying pan with the mushrooms and onion, mixing everything well. Add salt and, if desired, a bit of freshly chopped dill.

Step 5: Assembling the dish

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease the baking dish with margarine to prevent sticking. Start by placing a layer of sautéed cabbage at the bottom of the dish. Then add the mushroom and rice mixture, spreading it evenly. Finally, add the remaining sautéed cabbage on top. Arrange the tomato slices over the entire surface to add a splash of color and freshness.

Step 6: Baking

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven for about 30 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil to allow the tomatoes to brown slightly. You will notice how the flavors combine and intensify, making the dish a true delicacy.

Serving

Once the oven-baked cabbage is ready, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. You can sprinkle fresh dill on top for added flavor. It is delicious served alongside a fresh salad or with a portion of Greek yogurt for a pleasant contrast.

Useful tips

- Ingredient variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, to diversify the flavor. Additionally, if you like cheese, a layer of grated cheese on top will add a creamy texture and savory taste.
- The rice: Make sure the rice is well-cooked, but don’t overdo the cooking time to avoid it turning into mush. Long-grain or basmati rice is ideal for this dish.
- Storing the dish: Oven-baked cabbage keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave for a quick and healthy lunch.

Nutritional benefits

Cabbage is a vegetable rich in vitamins C and K, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Rice, on the other hand, is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. Mushrooms add extra protein and fiber, making this dish a healthy and nourishing option.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use red cabbage? Yes, red cabbage will add a touch of color and a slightly different flavor to your dish.
- Is this dish vegan? Yes, the recipe is completely vegan, but you can add cheese for a lacto-vegetarian version.
- What other spices could I use? You can experiment with spices like cumin, paprika, or even garlic to enhance the flavors.

Oven-baked cabbage is more than just a simple dish; it is a culinary experience that brings together flavors and textures in perfect harmony. Try this recipe and enjoy every bite!