Sweet cabbage sautéed with pork shoulder

Sweet sautéed cabbage with pork shoulder

If you want to experience the comfort and aroma of a traditional meal, this recipe for sweet sautéed cabbage with pork shoulder is the perfect choice. A delicious combination of simple ingredients that transforms into a flavorful main dish will warm your soul on cold evenings. Whether it's a weekend dinner or a family gathering, this dish is sure to bring smiles to everyone's faces.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 1.5 kg sweet cabbage
- 1 kg pork shoulder (beef can also be used for a different variant)
- 2 large onions
- 100 ml oil (sunflower or olive oil)
- 7 large tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh green lovage for decoration

Recipe history

Sautéed cabbage with meat is a beloved dish in many cultures, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of communities that grow cabbage. Cabbage is a versatile ingredient, used in both savory and sweet dishes, and is appreciated for its nutritional benefits. This recipe combines the sweet taste of cabbage with the rich aroma of meat, creating an irresistible blend.

Preparing the ingredients

1. Cleaning and chopping the onions: Start by peeling the onions, cutting them in half and then into slices. They will add a sweet flavor to the dish, contributing to a complex aroma.

2. Preparing the cabbage: Choose a fresh cabbage with meaty leaves. Remove the thicker outer leaves, wash it well, and chop it finely. Finely chopping the cabbage is essential as it will sauté evenly and absorb the flavors of the meat.

3. Preparing the meat: Wash the pork shoulder well and cut it into cubes of about 3-4 cm. This will help with even cooking and allow the meat to tenderize well.

4. Chopping the tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes and cut them into small cubes. Fresh tomatoes will add a fresh and slightly tangy note to the dish.

Cooking the dish

1. Heating the oil: In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the meat to achieve a nice browning.

2. Sautéing the meat: Once the oil is hot, add the pieces of pork shoulder. Sprinkle a pinch of salt to help extract the juices from the meat. Let the meat brown for about 5 minutes, turning it occasionally for an even crust.

3. Adding the onions: After the meat has browned, add the chopped onions. Continue to sauté the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and start to sauté.

4. Boiling the ingredients: Once the onions have started to sauté, add a cup of water to help cook the meat and onions. Cover the pot with a lid and let the ingredients simmer for 20 minutes until the meat becomes tender.

5. Adding the cabbage: After the meat is halfway cooked, add the chopped cabbage. Stir well to combine the ingredients. Add salt and pepper to taste. Here, you can control the amount of water you add depending on how moist you want the dish to be.

6. Final boiling: Cover the pot again and let the cabbage simmer for 30-40 minutes or until it becomes soft and blends with the flavors of the meat. Check periodically and add water if necessary.

7. Adding the tomatoes: Once the cabbage is almost done, add the tomato cubes. They will add a pleasant acidity and complement the sweet taste of the cabbage. Let it simmer together for another 10 minutes.

8. Finishing the dish: Finally, add the chopped lovage to bring a touch of freshness. This will give a fragrant taste and a splash of color to the dish.

Serving suggestions

This sweet sautéed cabbage with pork shoulder pairs perfectly with warm polenta, which will absorb the delicious flavors of the dish. In the absence of polenta, a side of salty cheese and red onion will wonderfully complement the sweet taste of the cabbage.

Vegetarian variant

For a vegetarian variant, you can replace the pork shoulder with mushrooms or tofu. These will add texture and an umami flavor to the dish. You can also experiment with different types of cabbage, such as kale or Brussels sprouts.

Useful tips

- Choose fresh ingredients: The quality of the ingredients is essential for a tasty dish. Choose fresh cabbage and quality meat, preferably from trusted butchers.
- Constant tasting: As you cook, taste the dish occasionally to adjust the seasonings to your preferences.
- Storage: This recipe keeps very well in the fridge for 2-3 days, and the flavors intensify as it sits. You can reheat it in the oven or on the stove.

Nutritional benefits

Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, being rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. Pork provides essential proteins and iron, contributing to a balanced diet. This dish is also filling and convenient, making it ideal for family meals.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use sauerkraut instead of fresh cabbage? Yes, but the taste will be different, and the dish will be saltier.
- What other ingredients can I add? You can experiment with grated carrots or peppers for an extra splash of color and nutrients.
- Is this recipe suitable for freezing? Yes, the dish can be frozen, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to preserve its flavor.

This recipe for sweet sautéed cabbage with pork shoulder is not only delicious but also full of memories and traditions. So, put on your apron and get ready for a culinary adventure that will bring joy and flavor to your home! Enjoy your meal!