Sweet cabbage like at home
Delicious Sweet Cabbage Recipe Like Mom Used to Make
This sweet cabbage recipe takes us back to childhood, when the smell of lovingly cooked food filled our home. Sweet cabbage is a simple yet flavorful dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. I invite you to discover the steps to achieve perfect cabbage with rich flavors and a soft texture.
Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 1 medium cabbage (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 5 grated tomatoes (or 400 g canned tomatoes)
- 1 large tomato for decoration
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste (preferably homemade)
- 1 medium onion
- 2 red bell peppers (like capia)
Brief history of the recipe:
Sweet cabbage is a traditional dish found in many households, where cooking with simple yet fresh ingredients is an art. This recipe has been passed down through generations, with each mother adding a personal touch, and today I will share my favorite recipe that combines traditional techniques with quality ingredients.
Step by step:
1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing the cabbage well and removing the outer leaves. Cut the cabbage into quarters and remove the core. Then, chop the cabbage into thin strips. You can use a sharp knife or a food processor to make your work easier.
2. Chopping the vegetables:
Peel the onion and chop it finely. Wash the bell peppers, remove the seeds, and cut them into small cubes. Choose fresh bell peppers with a meaty texture for better flavor.
3. Sautéing the vegetables:
Heat 3-4 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the bell peppers and continue to sauté for 5 minutes, until they soften.
4. Adding the cabbage:
Place the chopped cabbage over the sautéed vegetables and mix well. Add a splash of water (about 100 ml) and cover the pot with a lid. Let the cabbage steam over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Gradually add water, a small cup at a time, if necessary, until the cabbage becomes soft.
5. Preparing the sauce:
Once the cabbage is soft, add the tomato paste and grated tomatoes. You can use fresh tomatoes, but canned tomatoes are a good alternative, especially out of season. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the chopped dill to enhance the flavors.
6. Transferring to the baking dish:
After the sauce has thickened slightly, transfer the cabbage mixture to an oven-safe dish. Arrange the cabbage nicely and decorate with slices of tomato on top. You can also add a bit of dill or fresh parsley for a more attractive appearance.
7. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and let the cabbage bake for about 30-40 minutes, until a light golden crust forms on top. You can check occasionally to see if it's done, adding a little water if you notice it drying out too much.
8. Serving:
Once the cabbage is baked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. It is delicious both warm and cold. You can accompany it with a slice of fresh bread or polenta, and a glass of dry white wine would perfectly complement the meal.
Practical tips:
- Cabbage: Choose a fresh cabbage with crunchy leaves. White cabbage is the most commonly used, but you can experiment with red cabbage for a more colorful look.
- Tomatoes: In the warm season, use fresh tomatoes, and during the rest of the year, canned ones are an excellent choice.
- Dill: If you don't have fresh dill, you can use dried dill, but reduce the amount as the flavor is more concentrated.
- Variations: You can add ground meat or sausages for a heartier version. Also, for an extra flavor, add a few peppercorns and bay leaves during cooking.
Nutritional benefits:
Cabbage is a food rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is low in calories, making it ideal for a balanced diet. It also contains fiber, which aids in digestion.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use sauerkraut?: Yes, but the taste will be different and it won't require as much salt.
- How do I know if the cabbage is done?: The cabbage should be soft and have a pleasant texture. Check to ensure it's not too dry.
- What other sides go well with it?: Polenta or a fresh salad of raw vegetables are excellent choices.
This sweet cabbage recipe like mom used to make will not only fill your home with enticing aromas but also bring a touch of nostalgia in every bite. I invite you to prepare it and share this experience with your loved ones!
Ingredients: 1 medium cabbage, 5 grated tomatoes, 1 large tomato for decoration, 1 bunch of dill, salt, pepper, 3 tablespoons of broth, 1 medium onion, 2 red bell peppers (capia)
