Ham with sautéed cabbage

Delicious Recipe for Ham with Sautéed Cabbage

If you are looking for a recipe that brings the traditional flavors of Sunday dinner to every day, ham with sautéed cabbage is the perfect choice. This recipe is a true feast of flavors, combining the savoriness of smoked meat with the sweetness and pleasant texture of cabbage. Let’s embark together on the preparation of this dish, perfect for a family meal or a special occasion.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 slice of ham (approximately 1 kg)
- 1 medium cabbage (approximately 1 kg)
- 3-4 ripe tomatoes
- 1 large onion
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for a vibrant look)
- 200 ml tomato puree
- 150 ml red wine (choose a quality wine that you would also drink)
- 50 g lard (or olive oil for a healthier option)
- Salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, steak spices (to taste)

Short history of the recipe

Ham with sautéed cabbage is an old recipe that has been prepared for generations in many cultures. This combination of meat and vegetables is not only delicious but also nutritious. Cabbage, rich in vitamins and minerals, perfectly blends with the intense flavors of ham, creating a perfect balance between salty, sweet, and tangy. Over time, people have developed various versions of this recipe, adapting it to the available ingredients, but the essence remains the same: the comfort of a savory meal.

Step by step: Preparing ham with sautéed cabbage

1. Marinating the ham: The day before preparation, season the slice of ham well with salt, pepper, paprika, and steak spices. Place the ham in a container and add the red wine. Make sure it is well covered and let it marinate in the refrigerator overnight. This step will enhance the flavor and make the meat more tender.

2. Preparing the cabbage: On the day of preparation, clean the cabbage and cut it into thin strips. If desired, you can wash it briefly under cold water. This will help remove any impurities.

3. Sautéing the onion and garlic: In a large skillet, heat the lard (or olive oil) over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and the crushed clove of garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and starts to brown, about 5 minutes.

4. Adding the cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet over the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir well to combine the flavors. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes until the cabbage softens.

5. Preparing the ham: Remove the ham from the marinade and drain it lightly. In the same skillet, add the ham and fry it on each side for 4-5 minutes until it becomes golden brown. It is important to turn the ham to brown it evenly.

6. Adding the tomatoes: Once the ham is browned, add the sliced tomatoes to the skillet. They will add a note of freshness and a sweet-sour taste. Continue to cook over low heat, occasionally adding the remaining marinade to keep the meat moist.

7. Finalizing the dish: Once the ham is evenly cooked, it’s time to add the tomato puree. This will create a rich and flavorful sauce. Let everything simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes so that the flavors blend perfectly.

8. Optional - Baking in the oven: If you have time, after the ham has been fried, you can transfer it to a baking dish, placed on a bed of cabbage and vegetables. Cover with aluminum foil and bake at 180°C for 30-40 minutes. This method will make the ham even more tender and intensify the flavors.

9. Serving: Place the ham on a platter and surround it with the sautéed cabbage and tomatoes. Garnish with slices of bell pepper for a vibrant look. Serve the sauce from the pan on top for an extra flavor boost.

Chef’s tip

A dry red wine is the ideal companion for this dish. I recommend serving a wine that was also used in the marinade to create a perfect harmony between food and drink. Additionally, a fresh green salad can add a note of freshness to the meal.

Variations and suggestions

- Meat variations: You can replace the ham with pork or beef, adjusting the spices based on your choice.
- Adding vegetables: Try adding diced carrots or potatoes to the cabbage mixture to diversify the dish and add more nutrients.
- Creative serving: This dish can also be served on a bed of mashed potatoes or rice for a more substantial meal.

Nutritional information

This dish is rich in protein due to the ham and provides essential vitamins from the cabbage and vegetables. It contains healthy carbohydrates from the tomatoes and vegetables, making it a nourishing option for a family meal. However, be mindful of portions, considering the fat content from the lard.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use smoked ham?
Yes, smoked ham will add an even more intense flavor to the dish.

2. How can I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little water or broth to maintain moisture.

3. Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
The recipe contains healthy ingredients, but if you are following a specific diet, consider the amount of fat and salt.

Ham with sautéed cabbage is more than just a dish; it is a culinary experience, a celebration of flavors that blends tradition with innovation. So, get ready to indulge in rich tastes and bring joy to the table! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 slice of ham, 1 cabbage, 3-4 tomatoes, 1 onion, 1 garlic, 1 bell pepper, 200 ml broth, 150 ml red wine, 50 g lard, salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, spices for roasting.