Sautéed cabbage

Sautéed Sauerkraut with Onion and Dill - A Classic and Satisfying Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

I present you a recipe that combines the rich flavor of sauerkraut with the delicate aroma of onion and the freshness of dill. This sautéed cabbage recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor, perfect for cool days or as a side dish alongside meat.

A Bit of History

Sauerkraut has a long history, being a staple ingredient in many cultures. It is preserved through fermentation, which not only gives it a distinct taste but also nutritional benefits. Rich in vitamins, it is a healthy food that can be enjoyed year-round, bringing a touch of freshness to your plate.

Ingredients

- 1 sauerkraut (approximately 1.5-2 kg)
- 2 large onions
- 100 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, but recommended for a more intense flavor)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (freshly ground, to taste)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 2 bay leaves
- 4-5 peppercorns

A Bit of Preparation

Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. Sauerkraut can vary in acidity, so you can adjust its taste to your liking, either leaving it as it is or soaking it in water for 15 minutes, then draining it well.

Step by Step: Preparing the Sautéed Cabbage

1. Chopping the Cabbage
Start by chopping the sauerkraut into thin strips. If it's too sour for your taste, place the chopped cabbage in a bowl of cold water and let it sit for 15 minutes. Then, drain the cabbage well, pressing it lightly to remove excess water.

2. Preparing the Onion
Peel the onions and rinse them under cold water. Slice them thinly or into cubes, depending on your preference. The onion will add a pleasant sweetness to the final dish, so don't skip it!

3. Sautéing the Onion
In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it becomes translucent and slightly golden. This step is essential for developing the onion's flavor and giving the dish a rich taste.

4. Adding the Cabbage
Once the onion is sautéed, add the well-drained cabbage. Mix everything with a wooden spatula so that the cabbage combines evenly with the onion.

5. Cooking the Dish
Cover everything with water (approximately 500 ml, but you can adjust depending on how juicy you want the dish) and add the bay leaves and peppercorns. Let it simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Finishing the Dish
About 10 minutes before removing the dish from heat, add the tablespoon of tomato paste, salt, and pepper to taste. This step will not only intensify the flavors but will also add a beautiful color to the dish.

7. Adding the Dill
When the cabbage is well cooked and has absorbed all the flavors, take the pot off the heat and add the finely chopped dill. Fresh dill will provide a pleasant contrast and a note of freshness to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Sautéed cabbage with onion pairs wonderfully with a piece of roasted meat or sausages, but it can also be served as a main dish during fasting days. Enhance its flavor with a serving of warm polenta or a slice of freshly baked homemade bread.

Possible Variations

If you want to add a twist to the recipe, you can try adding a few slices of carrot or a bit of fresh cabbage for a different texture. You can also experiment with herbs, such as thyme or oregano, to diversify the flavors.

Nutritional Information

This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy! Sauerkraut is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and probiotics, which support digestive health. Each serving of sautéed cabbage has approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of oil used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh cabbage instead of sauerkraut?
Of course! However, sauerkraut brings a different taste due to fermentation. If you use fresh cabbage, consider adjusting the amount of salt.

2. Can sautéed cabbage be stored?
Yes, you can store sautéed cabbage in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.

3. What other recipes can it be combined with?
This recipe is delicious alongside roasts, but also with vegetarian dishes like vegetable meatballs or lentil dishes.

So here you have a sautéed cabbage recipe with onion that will not only delight your taste buds but will also bring you a feeling of comfort and warmth on chilly days. Happy cooking and enjoy!