Cabbage soup

Cabbage with Smoked Bacon - A Family Recipe with Authentic Taste

When it comes to cabbage, there are few dishes that evoke more pleasant memories than a steaming pot of cabbage with smoked bacon. This recipe is not just a simple dish, but a symbol of culinary traditions and family warmth. A recipe that combines the intense flavors of bacon with the freshness of vegetables and cabbage, bringing a touch of nostalgia to every serving. Let's start our culinary journey!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients

- 1.5 - 2 kg of cabbage (preferably fresh, but you can also use pickled cabbage)
- 1 kg of smoked bacon, cut into pieces
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can of tomatoes in juice (approximately 400 g)
- 1 liter of borscht (boiled separately to enhance its flavor)
- 1 hot pepper, for a touch of spiciness
- 1 bunch of celery, finely chopped
- 50 ml of oil or 2-3 tablespoons of lard
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Start by washing the bacon well and cutting it into evenly sized pieces. This will ensure even cooking. Chop the onion, carrot, and bell pepper, and finely chop the celery. These vegetables will add flavor and sweetness to your dish.

2. Heating the Oil: In a large pot, pour the oil or lard and heat it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the cut bacon and fry it until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. This is when the flavors intensify, setting the stage for the other ingredients.

3. Adding the Vegetables: Once the bacon is browned, add the onion, carrot, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté the vegetables with the bacon for 3-5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Don’t forget to add the hot pepper if you want a spicy taste!

4. The Tomatoes and Stewing: Now add the canned tomatoes, either chopped or blended, to the pot. Mix well and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. This step will help develop the flavors and allow the sauce to thicken a bit.

5. Adding the Water: After the mixture has simmered, add 2 cups of water and let it cook slowly, covered with a lid. This will help cook the meat and allow the flavors to meld. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes until the meat is nearly cooked through.

6. Incorporating the Cabbage: When the meat is nearly cooked, add the chopped cabbage. It’s important to keep the cabbage crunchy, so don’t rub it before adding it to the pot. Mix everything well, ensuring the cabbage is well incorporated into the flavorful sauce.

7. Finalizing the Dish: Cover the pot and let it simmer for another 10 minutes. After this time, add the separately boiled borscht and the chopped celery. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed. Once everything is well mixed, you can turn off the heat.

Serving

This cabbage with smoked bacon is served hot, alongside a slice of freshly baked homemade bread. A crisp green salad on the side is also an excellent choice to balance the rich flavors. If you prefer a more intense taste, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar when serving.

Practical Tips

- Cabbage: If using pickled cabbage, you can reduce the amount of salt in the recipe, as pickled cabbage is already salty.
- Bacon: You can substitute bacon with beef if you prefer a leaner option. Cook the meat longer to ensure it becomes tender.
- Borscht: If you don't have borscht on hand, you can use lemon juice or vinegar to add acidity.

Variations

You can experiment with different vegetables, such as cauliflower or carrots, to diversify the taste. You can also add herbs like thyme or bay leaves for extra flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is rich in nutrients due to its content of vegetables and meat. Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, while smoked bacon provides essential proteins. This combination makes this dish a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
No, but you can adapt the recipe using tofu or cooked vegetables instead of meat.

2. Can I make the recipe quicker?
For faster cooking, you can use a pressure cooker. The cooking time will be significantly reduced.

3. Can leftovers be stored?
Yes, this dish stores well in the fridge for 2-3 days and can be reheated without issues.

4. What other recipes can it be paired with?
This cabbage with smoked bacon pairs wonderfully with warm polenta or mashed potatoes. Additionally, a light beer or a dry white wine can perfectly complement the dish's flavors.

A Personal Note

This cabbage with smoked bacon recipe reminds me of Sunday meals from my childhood when the whole family would gather around the table to enjoy dishes cooked with love. Perhaps that’s why every serving I prepare makes me feel closer to my loved ones. I hope you enjoy this dish as much as I do!

Enjoy your meal!