Cabbage with peas - fasting dish

Cabbage with Peas - A Delicious and Hearty Recipe for Lent

This cabbage with peas recipe is an excellent choice for fasting days, offering not only a delicious taste but also a satisfying consistency. By combining fresh cabbage with sweet peas and adding a mix of spices, we've created a dish that will delight your taste buds. Here’s how to prepare this dish, step by step, so you can enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Servings: 6

Ingredients

- 2 kg fresh cabbage (choose a crisp white cabbage)
- 500 g peas (about 3 cups of fresh or frozen peas)
- 2 carrots (large, for added sweetness)
- 2 onions (preferably white or yellow onions)
- 100 g celery (about 1/2 small celery)
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon chili (adjust according to your preference)
- 1 tablespoon Ras el Hanout spice mix (for an exotic touch)
- 1 teaspoon dried coriander
- 1 teaspoon whole peppercorns
- Sunflower oil (or another vegetable oil)
- 100 mL white wine (optional, but adds a refined taste)
- 100 mL pickle juice (for a splash of acidity)
- Salt (to taste)

Decoration (optional)

- Shallot (for an elegant touch)
- Chives (for a fresh taste)

The Story Behind the Recipe

Cabbage with peas is a dish that often blends tradition with innovation. Its origins are found in fasting cuisine, where accessible ingredients are transformed into delicious meals meant to be nourishing and energizing. This recipe has evolved over time, and today, our version explores the combination of crunchy cabbage and sweet peas, enriched with aromatic spices that bring an exotic flair.

Step by Step

1. Prepare the ingredients
Start by washing the cabbage well, then remove the core and cut it into large strips, about 2-3 cm wide. Peel and dice the carrots and celery, and chop the onion finely. These vegetables will provide a flavorful base for the dish.

2. Sauté the vegetables
In a large skillet or deep pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of sunflower oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Add the carrots and celery and continue to sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables become slightly soft.

3. Add the cabbage and spices
Now it’s time to add the chopped cabbage. Stir well to combine the vegetables. After a few minutes, add all the spices: sweet paprika, thyme, chili, coriander, whole peppercorns, bay leaves, and salt. Stir again to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

4. Add the wine and let it evaporate
Add the white wine and let it simmer for 5 minutes so that the alcohol evaporates and only the aroma remains. This is an important step that adds depth to the dish’s flavor.

5. Add the peas
Once the cabbage starts to soften, add the peas. If you’re using frozen peas, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Mix everything well and cover the pot with a lid. Let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Finalize the dish
When the cabbage and peas are cooked and the flavors have melded, add the pickle juice. This will add a splash of acidity that balances the dish’s taste. Taste and adjust the salt if necessary.

Serving Suggestions

To make this dish even more special, you can garnish the servings with finely chopped shallot and fresh chives. Serve it warm, alongside a slice of fresh bread or with a spicy tomato sauce for a delicious contrast and a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pickled cabbage instead of fresh cabbage?
Yes, you can use pickled cabbage, but adjust the amount of salt and pickle juice to avoid an overly salty dish.

2. How can I adapt the recipe to include more vegetables?
This recipe is very versatile! You can add potatoes, zucchini, or even bell peppers, depending on your preferences.

3. Is it possible to freeze this dish?
Yes, the recipe can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers.

Nutritional Benefits

This cabbage with peas is not only delicious but also healthy. Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, while peas provide plant-based proteins and fiber, contributing to digestive health. Additionally, the spices add not only flavor but also antioxidants, making this dish an excellent choice for a balanced diet.

Possible Variations

If you want to add more protein, you can include cooked chickpeas or lentils in the recipe. Also, for those who love spicy dishes, a splash of hot sauce will enhance the flavors.

In conclusion, cabbage with peas is a fasting recipe that not only satisfies cravings but also meets nutritional needs. By using simple techniques and accessible ingredients, you can create a hearty and flavorful dish. So embrace the magic of cooking and enjoy every step of this creative process! Bon appétit!