Braised cabbage with red beans

Sautéed cabbage with red beans - an innovative recipe, full of flavor and health, that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen! This combination, although it may seem strange at first glance, offers a surprising taste and is an excellent choice for fasting days or for a balanced diet. Whether you are a cooking enthusiast or a beginner, this simple and quick recipe will bring you satisfaction and, undoubtedly, many compliments from your loved ones.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 medium-sized cabbage (approximately 1-1.5 kg)
- 1 can of cooked red beans (400 g)
- 1 can of diced tomatoes in juice (400 g)
- 1 large onion
- 100 ml oil (preferably olive or sunflower oil)
- Salt and ground pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons of dried thyme

A short story about the recipe:
This recipe emerged from a spontaneous inspiration when the desire to prepare classic sautéed cabbage met a can of red beans left on a shelf in the pantry. A combination that surprised with its taste, demonstrating that some of the most delicious dishes can come from the most unusual encounters. Sautéed cabbage with red beans is not just a hearty dish, but also a healthy choice, rich in fiber and plant protein.

Step by step: Your guide to preparing sautéed cabbage with red beans

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the cabbage well. Remove the outer leaves that are not fresh. Cut the cabbage in half and remove the core. Then slice the cabbage into thin strips and place it in a large bowl. Add a teaspoon of salt and gently massage the cabbage with your hands for 2-3 minutes. This process helps the cabbage release its juice, making it softer and tastier.

2. Chopping the onion: Peel the onion and chop it finely. This will add an aromatic flavor to your dish.

3. Sautéing the onion: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent (about 5 minutes). Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt and ground pepper to enhance its aroma.

4. Adding the cabbage: Add the sautéed cabbage to the pot, mixing well to combine the ingredients. Let the cabbage sauté for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You will notice that the cabbage becomes softer and releases its liquid.

5. Including tomatoes and beans: After the cabbage has sautéed, add the can of diced tomatoes in juice and the drained red beans. These ingredients will add a sweet-sour note and a delicious texture to the dish.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the oven. Let the cabbage cook for 30 minutes or until the liquid has reduced and a golden crust has formed on top. This step will intensify the flavors and give an appetizing appearance.

7. Serving: Serve the sautéed cabbage with red beans hot, garnished with a handful of fresh thyme, if available. It pairs deliciously with pickled hot peppers or a fresh salad. You can accompany this dish with homemade bread or polenta for a truly comforting lunch.

Useful tips:
- Red beans: If you prefer to use dried beans, make sure to soak them the night before and cook them until soft.
- Cabbage: You can use white or red cabbage, depending on your preference. Red cabbage will provide a colorful appearance and a slightly sweet note.
- Spices: Experiment with spices! Add paprika, garlic, or even fresh chili for a spicier taste.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or potatoes, to enrich the dish.

Nutritional benefits:
This sautéed cabbage with red beans recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamins C and K, while red beans are rich in protein, fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to healthy digestion and maintaining a balanced body weight.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of beans? Yes, you can replace red beans with white or black beans, depending on your preference.
2. Is this recipe vegan? Yes, the recipe is completely vegan, perfect for fasting days.
3. How can I improve the texture? If you want a creamier texture, you can add a splash of plant-based sour cream at the end.
4. How do I store leftovers? You can keep the dish in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze it for later consumption.

Conclusion:
Sautéed cabbage with red beans is a simple yet extremely satisfying recipe that combines the natural flavors of vegetables with high nutritional value. With each bite, you will feel the warmth and goodness of this simple yet characterful dish. Don’t hesitate to try it and share it with your friends! Enjoy your meal!