Sweet Cabbage in the Oven

Sweet Cabbage Baked: A Recipe Full of Flavor and Tradition

Who can resist the enticing aromas that waft from the kitchen when we prepare a delicious sweet cabbage baked? This recipe is a true feast, packed with nutrients and flavor, and can easily become the star of your meal. What makes this dish so special is the perfect combination of simple yet aromatic ingredients that transform into a comforting dish, ideal for any season.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 140 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients

- 2 heads of cabbage
- 2 large onions
- 1 bell pepper (red or green)
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1-2 tablespoons of dried dill
- 1-2 tablespoons of thyme
- Salt to taste
- 6 cloves of garlic
- 1 cup of white wine
- Freshly ground pepper

A Brief History

Cabbage, a vegetable with a long history, has been cultivated for thousands of years, appreciated not only for its taste but also for its nutritional benefits. It is an excellent source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, helping to maintain digestive health. Baked cabbage develops a sweet aroma and a delicate texture, making it an ideal accompaniment to various meat dishes or as a vegetarian main course.

Step by Step: How to Prepare Sweet Cabbage Baked

1. Preparing the cabbage: Start by removing the outer dry or damaged leaves from the cabbage. Wash it well under cold running water. Then, cut each head in half, remove the core, and slice the cabbage into thin strips. This step is essential for even cooking.

2. Seasoning: Place the sliced cabbage in a large bowl, sprinkle with coarse salt, thyme, and dried dill. Massage the cabbage with your hands to help the salt penetrate and release its juices. Let it sit for 30 minutes; this process will help soften the cabbage and intensify the flavors.

3. Preparing the vegetables: During this time, chop the onion and bell pepper into small cubes. These vegetables add delicious flavor and a crunchy texture to the dish.

4. Assembly: In a large pot, layer the seasoned cabbage, onion, and bell pepper. Add a bit of freshly ground pepper for extra flavor. Pour in boiling water, enough to cover the vegetables.

5. Baking: Cover the pot with a lid and place it in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius. Let the cabbage bake for 20 minutes. This initial step will help soften the vegetables and develop the flavors.

6. Adding the tomato paste: After 20 minutes, remove the pot from the oven and add the 3 tablespoons of tomato paste. Mix well to combine the ingredients, then cover the pot again and let it bake for another 120 minutes. This is when the flavors meld and the cabbage becomes soft and delicious.

7. Finishing the dish: 20 minutes before removing the pot from the oven, add the minced garlic and the cup of white wine. The garlic will add an intense flavor, while the wine will provide a subtle acidity, balancing the sweetness of the cabbage. Let everything bake in the oven until the cabbage is well cooked and the flavors are perfectly integrated.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet cabbage baked pairs wonderfully with pork or chicken roast, but it can also be enjoyed as a vegetarian main course alongside a fresh salad. Add a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for an extra creaminess. If you want to add a bit of crunch, serve with toasted bread croutons.

Possible Variations

- For a spicy kick: Add a few slices of hot pepper to the dish.
- For a richer flavor: Substitute white wine with red wine, or add some slices of smoked sausage to the pot.
- Vegan: Omit any animal-derived ingredients and use olive oil instead of butter.

Nutritional Benefits

Cabbage is rich in vitamins C, K, and B6, as well as fiber, making it an excellent food for digestive health and immunity. It also contains antioxidants that can help combat inflammation. This recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious, with about 150 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil and wine used.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use sauerkraut instead of fresh cabbage? Yes, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted since sauerkraut is already cooked.
- Can I prepare the recipe in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the cabbage a day ahead and store it in the fridge. You can reheat it in the oven or on the stove.
- What other recipes can it be combined with? Sweet cabbage baked pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, polenta, or homemade bread.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking! Sweet cabbage baked is a simple yet character-filled recipe waiting to be enjoyed by you and your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!