Sweet cabbage with baked pork

Sweet cabbage with pork in the oven is a classic dish that combines the rich flavors of meat with the sweetness of cabbage, creating a meal that not only delights the taste buds but also brings a sense of comfort and warmth on cold days. This recipe is perfect for family meals or special occasions and can easily become a favorite among loved ones.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 1.2 kg pork (thigh, neck, or raw ham)
- 1 sweet cabbage (1.5-2 kg)
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 chili pepper
- 4-5 tomatoes
- 1 onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 bunch of dill
- 1 bunch of parsley
- 50 g ketchup
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 10 ml oil
- Bay leaves
- Thyme
- Salt, pepper, paprika, to taste

The story behind the recipe:
This pork cabbage recipe is a blend of culinary traditions, often prepared in families over generations. Cabbage has been cultivated and consumed by people from various corners of the world, appreciated not only for its taste but also for its nutritional properties. This dish reflects the attitude of using simple yet quality ingredients to create a savory and nutritious meal.

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
The first step is to ensure that all the ingredients are ready. Here are some useful tips for a pleasant culinary experience:

- Meat: Choose pork with a moderate fat content, such as thigh or neck, to achieve a juicy roast. Cut the meat into larger pieces to retain its juiciness during cooking.
- Cabbage: Select a firm, heavy sweet cabbage. Check the leaves to be intact, without spots or damage.
- Vegetables: Chop the bell pepper, carrot, and onion into small pieces. These will add extra flavor and color to the dish.
- Tomatoes: Use well-ripened tomatoes, which will provide consistency and a sweet-sour taste.

Step 2: Cooking the meat
In a cast-iron pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the pork pieces and fry them until golden brown on all sides. This process will not only add a pleasant texture but will also intensify the flavors.

Step 3: Adding the vegetables
Once the meat is browned, add the finely chopped onion, bell pepper, and carrot. These vegetables will soften and release their juices, enriching the flavors of the dish. Mix well and let everything cook for a few minutes.

Step 4: Seasoning
Add two cups of water, sugar, salt, pepper, paprika, and a little thyme. Mix everything well, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes. This will help develop the flavors and prepare the meat for the cabbage.

Step 5: Preparing the cabbage
Meanwhile, slice the cabbage into thin strips. Rub the cabbage with two teaspoons of salt to extract excess water, then rinse quickly and squeeze well. This technique will help the cabbage become softer and more flavorful.

Step 6: Assembling the dish
Add the squeezed cabbage over the meat and vegetable mixture in the pot. Mix well to combine the ingredients. Then place the pot in the preheated oven at 180°C for about 20 minutes.

Step 7: Finishing the dish
After 20 minutes, add the ketchup, chopped greens, bay leaves, and sliced tomatoes on top. Leave the dish in the oven for another 45 minutes, or until the cabbage is soft and slightly browned. Check occasionally to see if the liquid has reduced too much; if necessary, add a small amount of water to maintain moisture.

Step 8: Serving
When the dish is ready, taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Place pieces of meat on plates, add cabbage, and drizzle with a little juice from the pot. For added aesthetics, top with slices of tomatoes and bell peppers.

Serving suggestions:
This dish pairs perfectly with warm polenta or a slice of homemade bread. A simple pickled salad can add a note of freshness and a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the cabbage and meat.

Variations:
- For a spicier version, add hot peppers or spices like chili.
- You can experiment with different types of meat, such as beef or chicken, but cooking time will vary.
- Replace ketchup with tomato paste for a more intense flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the pork, while cabbage provides a considerable amount of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber. Additionally, the added vegetables contribute to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- What is the best meat for this recipe?
Pork thigh or neck are the most suitable due to their fat content, which helps maintain juiciness.

- Can I use sauerkraut instead of sweet cabbage?
Yes, but you should adjust the amount of salt, as sauerkraut is already salty.

- How can I store leftovers?
Keep the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be reheated in the oven or in a pan.

Calories:
A serving of this recipe contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil and meat used.

So, don’t wait! Try this delicious recipe for sweet cabbage with pork in the oven and let its enticing flavors bring joy and comfort to your meal. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 1.2 kg pork meat (thigh, neck, raw ham) 1 sweet cabbage 1.5-2 kg 1 bell pepper 1 chili pepper 4-5 tomatoes 1 onion 1 carrot 1 bunch of dill and parsley 50 g ketchup 2 teaspoons sugar 10 ml oil bay leaves, thyme, salt, pepper, paprika