Cabbage

Cabbage Pies: Delicious Treats for Unforgettable Moments

When it comes to traditional dishes, nothing compares to the aroma and taste of cabbage pies. These delicious treats are a symbol of joy and conviviality, reminding us of family meals from childhood. The recipe I will share today is simple and quick, perfect for preparing at home, and the result is simply savory. Let's get started!

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4 generous servings

Ingredients needed for the dough:
- 500 g wheat flour
- 150 ml lukewarm water
- 150 ml oil (preferably sunflower oil or olive oil)
- 1 teaspoon salt

Ingredients needed for the filling:
- 1 small pickled cabbage
- 1 teaspoon salt (if the cabbage is not too salty)
- Oil for sautéing
- Freshly ground pepper
- Nutmeg (optional, but adds a flavor note)
- Dried thyme (or fresh, if available)

Preparing the dough:
1. In a large bowl, sift the flour to avoid lumps.
2. Make a well in the center of the flour and add the salt.
3. Start kneading with a spoon, gradually adding lukewarm water and oil.
4. Continue kneading with your hands until you obtain an elastic and smooth dough. If the dough sticks to your hands, you can add a little more flour.
5. Once the dough is well kneaded, cover it with a clean towel and let it rest for 20-30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a perfect texture when baking.

Preparing the filling:
1. Wash the cabbage under cold running water, then chop it finely.
2. In a deep skillet, add a little oil and the chopped cabbage. Add a few tablespoons of water to help with sautéing.
3. Season with salt (if necessary), pepper, and if desired, nutmeg and thyme.
4. Sauté the cabbage over medium heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and releases its aroma.

Assembling the pies:
1. After the dough has rested, divide it into two equal parts.
2. Roll out the first part on a floured surface until you obtain a thin sheet.
3. Cut the sheet into squares of about 10 cm on each side.
4. Place a spoonful of the cabbage filling on each square and bring the corners of the dough toward the center, forming a shape similar to "poale-n brâu."
5. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 190°C.
6. Place the pies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between them to bake evenly.

Baking:
1. Place the tray in the oven and bake the pies for 35-45 minutes, until they become golden and crispy.
2. Check occasionally to ensure they do not burn. The aroma that will fill your home during this time will be irresistible!

Serving and suggestions:
Once they have cooled slightly, the pies can be served plain or with a spoonful of sour cream on top. These delicious pies pair perfectly with a glass of yogurt or a light white wine. Additionally, they can be enjoyed both warm and cold, making them ideal for a picnic or a quick snack.

Helpful tips:
- If you want a healthier option, you can use olive oil instead of sunflower oil.
- You can also add other vegetables to the filling, such as carrots or mushrooms, for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Feel free to experiment with different spices, such as cumin or paprika, to personalize the flavors.

Nutritional benefits:
Pickled cabbage is an excellent source of vitamin C and fiber, having beneficial effects on digestion. It is also low in calories, making it a good choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh cabbage instead of pickled cabbage?
- Absolutely! You can use fresh cabbage, but you will need to sauté it longer to soften it.

2. What can I do with the leftover dough?
- You can make small pies with other fillings, such as cheese or potatoes.

3. How can I store the pies for later consumption?
- These pies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or in a skillet to restore their crispy texture.

Now that you have all the details and tricks you need, it's time to get cooking! Try this delicious cabbage pie recipe and enjoy every bite! It’s a recipe that will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: Dough: 500g flour, 150ml water, 150ml oil, salt. Filling: 1 small sour cabbage, 1 teaspoon salt (if the cabbage is not too salty), oil, pepper, nutmeg (I didn't have any), thyme.