New cabbage sautéed with chicken in a bag

Sautéed New Cabbage with Chicken in a Bag

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Servings: 4

The history of this dish is simple yet full of flavor and tradition. Cabbage has been a staple ingredient in many cultures' cuisines, appreciated for both its taste and nutritional benefits. Combined with juicy chicken, this dish becomes a nourishing and comforting meal, perfect for a family evening or to impress guests. Let’s embark on a culinary journey together and discover how to prepare sautéed new cabbage with chicken in a bag!

Ingredients:
- 1 large cabbage
- 50 ml sunflower or olive oil (the choice of oil can influence the flavor)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (you can also use fresh mashed tomatoes)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if available)
- 1 bay leaf
- 4-5 cloves of garlic (for an extra flavor boost)
- 1 whole chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- Spices to taste (sweet paprika, rosemary, oregano)
- 1 cooking bag for the chicken (make sure it’s high quality and heat resistant)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the cabbage:
Start by washing the cabbage under cold running water. Remove the outer leaves, then cut the cabbage in half and remove the core. Slice the cabbage into thin strips. This technique will help the cabbage cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the spices.

2. Salting the cabbage:
Place the sliced cabbage in a large bowl and sprinkle salt over it. Massage the cabbage with your hands for a few minutes. This step helps to soften the cabbage and intensify the flavors.

3. Sautéing the cabbage:
In a deep skillet or pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the sautéed cabbage, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent, about 15-20 minutes. If you prefer a sweeter note, you can add a pinch of sugar.

4. Seasoning the cabbage:
Once the cabbage is sautéed, add the pepper, thyme, bay leaf, and tomato paste. Mix well and let it simmer together for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

5. Preparing the chicken:
While the cabbage is cooking, prepare the chicken. Wash it well and dry it with a paper towel. Season it with salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and any other preferred spices. Stuff the inside of the chicken with fresh thyme and oregano for an intense flavor.

6. Cooking the chicken in a bag:
Place the chicken in a special cooking bag and add a few whole cloves of garlic for extra flavor. Tie the bag securely, leaving a little space for steam. Place the bag on a tray and put it in the preheated oven at 180°C. Cook for about 45-60 minutes, until the chicken is browned and juicy.

7. Serving the dish:
Once the chicken is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before removing it from the bag. Serve the chicken alongside the sautéed cabbage, and for an extra flavor boost, drizzle everything with a few drops of lemon juice. This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine or a relaxing herbal tea.

Useful tips:
- If you want a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken with marinated tofu or large mushrooms that will absorb the flavors of the spices.
- New cabbage can be replaced with pickled cabbage for a tangier taste.
- You can also add some grated carrots or bell peppers to the cabbage mixture for extra color and nutrients.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, while chicken provides quality protein. A serving of sautéed cabbage with chicken contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use red cabbage? Yes, red cabbage will add a unique hue to the dish.
- What else can I add to the chicken? You can experiment with lemon, garlic, or even lemon slices inside the chicken for a citrusy flavor.

This recipe for sautéed new cabbage with chicken in a bag is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that brings together the simple yet vibrant flavors of fresh ingredients. I invite you to try it and personalize it to your taste! Cooking is an art, and each recipe can become a unique story to share with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 large cabbage 50ml oil 2 tablespoons tomato paste salt and pepper to taste 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 bay leaf 4-5 cloves of garlic 1 chicken seasoning to taste 1 bag for putting the chicken in the oven