Shiny with smoked ham
Smoked Ham Hock with Cabbage – A Savory and Comforting Recipe
When it comes to traditional dishes, smoked ham hock with cabbage holds a special place in the hearts of many. This recipe is a perfect combination of the rich flavor of smoked meat and the sweetness of cabbage, resulting in a hearty meal, ideal for chilly days. Additionally, the preparation is simple, and the ingredients are easy to find. Let’s embark on the cooking process of this delicious dish together!
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 1 fresh cabbage (about 1 kg)
- 250 g boneless smoked ham hock, diced
- 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
- 1 onion, peeled and finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- 300 ml tomato puree
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 1 sprig of dried thyme (optional)
- Salt, to taste
Preparation:
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the onion and carrot. Grate the carrot on the large grater and chop the onion finely. These vegetables will add a wonderful flavor to your dish.
2. The smoked ham hock: Cut the boneless ham hock into cubes. The smoked meat is the key to this dish, bringing a deep flavor and an inviting aroma.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In a deep pot, heat the 3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they become translucent and slightly golden.
4. Add the ham hock: Once the vegetables are sautéed, add the diced ham hock. Mix well and let it brown slightly for 5 minutes to intensify the flavors.
5. Boiling: Pour in water (about 500 ml) and cover the pot with a lid. Let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes. It’s important to check occasionally to ensure that too much liquid does not evaporate, adding water as needed.
6. Preparing the cabbage: In the meantime, wash the cabbage under cold running water and slice it thinly. When the water in the pot begins to boil, add the sliced cabbage. Stir occasionally, as the cabbage will rise to the surface.
7. Seasoning: Add salt to taste. This is where you can adjust the saltiness according to your preferences.
8. Finishing the dish: When the cabbage is cooked and becomes tender (about 15-20 minutes), mix the tomato puree with a tablespoon of flour until you obtain a smooth paste. Add this mixture to the pot, stirring well. Let it boil for another 5-10 minutes for the puree to integrate into the dish.
9. Thyme aroma: Once finished, add the sprig of dried thyme, cover the pot, and let the dish rest for a few minutes. Before serving, don’t forget to remove the thyme.
10. Serving: The smoked ham hock with cabbage is served warm, topped with a spoonful of sour cream. This will add a creamy note and balance the intense flavors.
Useful tips for a perfect result:
- Use fresh and crispy cabbage, as its texture will significantly influence the dish.
- The smoked ham hock can be replaced with other types of smoked meat, such as bacon or pancetta, for a richer variant.
- For an extra flavor, you can add a few peppercorns or a bay leaf during boiling.
Variations: If you like, you can add fresh dill at the end, even though some prefer to avoid it. You can also experiment with other vegetables, such as bell peppers or potatoes.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use pickled cabbage?
Yes, but you will need to reduce the amount of salt, as pickled cabbage is already salty. This will add a more sour taste to the dish.
2. How can I adapt the recipe to be vegetarian?
You can replace the ham hock with mushrooms or smoked tofu. Additionally, add spices to enhance the flavors.
3. What can I serve with the smoked ham hock?
It pairs wonderfully with warm polenta or homemade bread. A dry white wine will perfectly complement the meal.
Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is not only delicious but also offers a range of nutritional benefits. Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, while the smoked ham hock provides quality protein. The olive or sunflower oil used in preparation adds healthy fatty acids.
Now that you have all the details to prepare a perfect smoked ham hock with cabbage, it’s time to start cooking! Whether it's a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish will surely impress. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 1 kg fresh cabbage, 250 g smoked boneless ham, 1 large carrot, 1 onion, 3 tablespoons oil, 300 ml broth, 1 tablespoon flour, 1 sprig of dried thyme, salt to taste
