Braised cabbage with smoked meat

Sautéed Cabbage with Smoked Meat – a Delicious and Comforting Recipe

Sautéed cabbage with smoked meat is a traditional dish, full of flavors and nostalgia, that takes us back to family meals from childhood. This simple and tasty recipe is perfect for cool days when you need a comforting dish. Moreover, it is an excellent choice for a hearty lunch or a satisfying dinner. Let's discover the secrets of this recipe together and let ourselves be inspired by its aromas!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 200-300 g smoked meat (preferably Kaiser, but you can also use other types of smoked sausages)
- 1 medium white cabbage
- 2 onions
- 1 carrot
- 2-3 tablespoons sunflower or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bunch of fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 2 bay leaves
- 5-6 peppercorns
- 4 tablespoons tomato juice
- 1 cup of water

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the cabbage well and cutting it into thin strips. It is important that the cabbage is cut evenly to cook evenly. Rub the cabbage with a pinch of salt to extract its juice and soften it a bit. This will help achieve a more pleasant texture in the end.

2. Preparing the smoked meat
Cut the Kaiser into medium-sized pieces. In a large skillet or deep pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the smoked meat and sauté for a few minutes until it turns golden and starts releasing its flavors. Be careful not to use too much oil, as the smoked meat will also release fat.

3. Adding the vegetables
Add the finely chopped onion and grated carrot to the skillet. Sauté them together with the smoked meat for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly. The onion will become translucent, and the carrot will add a touch of sweetness to the dish.

4. Cooking the cabbage
Now it is time to add the cabbage. Add a handful of cabbage at a time, stirring gently to allow it to soften a bit. Continue adding the cabbage until it is fully integrated.

5. Seasoning
Once all the cabbage is in the pot, add thyme, dill, bay leaves, and peppercorns. These spices will give a rich and aromatic flavor to the cabbage. Mix well to combine the flavors.

6. Adding the tomato juice
Dilute the tomato juice with a cup of water and pour the mixture over the cabbage. This step will add a tangy note and help cook the cabbage. Stir everything and cover the pot with a lid.

7. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pot in the oven and let the cabbage simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Baking will enhance the flavors and provide a wonderful texture to the dish.

8. Serving
Sautéed cabbage with smoked meat is served warm, alongside a portion of freshly made polenta. If you wish, you can garnish the dish with a bit of chopped fresh dill for a more attractive appearance.

Chef's tip

For an extra flavor boost, you can also add some slices of bell pepper or hot pepper when sautéing the onion and carrot. Additionally, if you like spicier food, feel free to add a pinch of paprika or dried hot pepper.

Variations

If you want to experiment, you can replace the Kaiser with pork or homemade sausages. You can also add a splash of white wine at the end, before covering the pot, to give it a more complex taste.

Nutritional benefits

Cabbage is a vegetable rich in vitamins C, K, and the B group, having beneficial effects on the immune and digestive systems. The smoked meat adds protein and a savory flavor, but moderate consumption is recommended due to its salt content.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use pickled cabbage?
Yes, pickled cabbage can be used in this recipe. In this case, reduce the amount of added salt.

2. What other side dishes pair well?
Besides polenta, this sautéed cabbage can be served with mashed potatoes or fresh bread.

3. How can I store leftovers?
Sautéed cabbage keeps well in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat before serving.

4. How many calories are in a serving?
A serving of sautéed cabbage with smoked meat has about 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil and smoked meat used.

Therefore, sautéed cabbage with smoked meat is not only a delicious dish but also a recipe full of memories and flavor. Enjoy every bite and the aromas that will fill your home with warmth and comfort! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 200-300 g smoked meat (I used Kaiser) 1 white cabbage 2 onions 1 carrot oil thyme dill 2 bay leaves whole pepper 4 tablespoons tomato juice 1 cup water

 Tags:  cabbage smoking cornmeal porridge