Kiss with cabbage
Cabbage Puff: The Delicious Recipe of Childhood
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8
In this recipe, I will share a special childhood dish: Cabbage Puff. A rustic delicacy, full of nostalgia, that was lovingly prepared by my great-grandmother and my aunt. This simple yet memorable recipe is perfect for bringing a touch of warmth to your heart and your festive table.
A Bit of History
The Cabbage Puff recipe is one of those traditional dishes that have been passed down from generation to generation. It reflects the simplicity and richness of natural ingredients, serving as an excellent way to make the most of the earth's bounty. Cabbage, a staple ingredient in many cultures, is rich in nutrients and has a distinctive taste that pairs perfectly with the fluffy dough.
Necessary Ingredients
*For the dough:*
- 500 gr of flour
- 1 packet of dry yeast (about 7 gr)
- A pinch of salt
- 300 ml lukewarm water (not hot)
*For the filling:*
- 2 medium cabbages (about 800 gr)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 egg (for brushing the dough)
Step by Step: Preparing the Cabbage Puff
1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, sift the flour. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy dough, as the air helps activate the yeast. In another container, warm the water until it is lukewarm (not hot!), then add the dry yeast. Let the yeast activate for 10 minutes. It will become frothy and emit a pleasant aroma, signaling that it is ready to use.
2. Mixing the ingredients:
Once the yeast has activated, pour it over the flour. Add a pinch of salt and start mixing with a spatula or your hands. Gradually add lukewarm water while kneading. The dough should be soft but not sticky. Knead for about 10-15 minutes until you obtain an elastic and smooth dough.
3. Letting the dough rise:
Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
4. Preparing the filling:
In the meantime, wash and finely chop the cabbages. In a pot, add a little canola oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped cabbage, salt, and pepper, then sauté until softened, about 15 minutes. It is important for the cabbage to be well sautéed but not too soft. Allow it to cool completely, as adding warm cabbage to the dough will cause it to break.
5. Forming the puff:
After the dough has risen, sprinkle flour on the work surface and roll out the dough with a rolling pin until you obtain a thin sheet, slightly larger than the circumference of the pot you will bake in. Arrange the dough in the pot, ensuring that the edges are well covered.
6. Adding the filling:
Place the cooled sautéed cabbage in the center of the dough. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, covering it completely. Make sure the edges are well sealed to avoid leaks during baking.
7. Brushing and baking:
Beat the egg and brush the surface of the puff with it, to achieve a golden and appetizing crust. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake the dish for 30-35 minutes or until it is golden brown and well baked.
8. Cooling and serving:
Once the puff is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pot for 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
Cabbage Puff can be served warm or at room temperature, alongside a fresh tomato or cucumber salad. Additionally, a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt can perfectly complement this dish, adding a creamy touch.
Possible Variations
To customize this recipe, you can try adding other ingredients to the filling. For example, minced pork or beef, sautéed mushrooms, or feta cheese could add a different flavor. You can also experiment with spices like cumin or dill to enhance the taste.
Nutritional Benefits
Cabbage is an excellent ingredient nutritionally. It is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, positively impacting gut health and the immune system. This dish is a healthy and hearty choice, ideal for the whole family.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, you can replace part of the white flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- What other fillings can I use? You can experiment with fillings made of potatoes, cheese, or even mixed vegetables, depending on your preferences.
- How do I store the puff? It can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and to reheat it, you can place it in a preheated oven.
This Cabbage Puff recipe is not just a delicious dish but also a way to reminisce about beautiful moments from childhood. I encourage you to try it and share it with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: I used for the dough: 500 g flour, 1 packet of dry yeast, a pinch of salt, 300 ml warm water. For the filling: 2 medium-sized cabbages, salt, pepper, 1 egg for brushing the dough.
