Ham on cabbage in the oven

Ham with Cabbage in the Oven – A Rustic and Comforting Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Discover the authentic flavor of a traditional recipe with ham and cabbage in the oven, a dish that combines the rich flavors and delicate texture of the meat with the tangy taste of pickled cabbage. This dish is perfect for family meals or special occasions, with a rustic charm that will remind you of festive gatherings.

Your ingredients for a delicious recipe:

- 1 slice of ham (approximately 1 kg)
- 800 g pickled cabbage
- 4-5 tomatoes
- 1 onion
- 50 g celery
- 1-2 carrots
- 200 ml broth
- a few sprigs of dill and parsley
- 50 ml oil
- salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, steak spices
- optional: 1 smoked bacon cube for extra flavor

A brief history of the recipe:

This ham with cabbage recipe is inspired by culinary traditions that value simple yet flavorful ingredients available in every season. Its origins date back to when people preserved meat through smoking and pickling, ensuring they had healthy ingredients year-round. Pickled cabbage, a staple in many kitchens, not only provides a delicious taste but also nutritional benefits, being rich in vitamins C and K.

Step by step: Preparing Ham with Cabbage

1. Prepare the ingredients:
Start by preparing all the ingredients. Cut the ham slice to the desired size and season it with salt, pepper, and paprika. A light marination with your favorite spices will enhance the flavors.

2. Sear the ham:
In a large skillet, add the oil and heat it well. Place the ham slice in the skillet and let it fry over medium heat until it becomes golden and crispy on one side, about 5-7 minutes. Flip the ham and add the peeled and sliced tomatoes. Let them fry together for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes release their juice.

3. Prepare the vegetables:
Cut the pickled cabbage into long strips. In a Jena dish or an enameled pan, layer a bed of tomato slices, carrot sticks, and celery, the onion cut into quarters, and a few sprigs of herbs for added flavor. This mixture will form a protective layer for the ham.

4. Assemble the dish:
On top of the vegetables in the pan, add a thin layer of pickled cabbage, then carefully place the fried ham slice. Cover everything with the remaining cabbage and add the juices from the skillet, 300 ml of water, and the broth. This is the perfect time to add a smoked bacon cube, if you choose to use it, for a rich and savory taste.

5. Bake the dish:
Season generously with paprika, cover the pan with aluminum foil or a lid, and place it in the oven at medium heat for about 1 hour. This step will allow the flavors to meld and penetrate the meat.

6. Finish the dish:
After an hour, take the pan out of the oven, remove the foil, and check the liquid level. If necessary, add a little water. Sprinkle some thyme on top and return the pan to the oven, this time at low heat, for another 45 minutes. It’s important to occasionally baste the meat with the juices from the pan to keep it juicy.

7. Serving:
When the dish is ready, carefully remove it from the oven and place it on a platter. Garnish with slices of fresh tomatoes, dill, and chopped parsley. The sauce from the pan can be poured over to enhance the flavors. A side of warm polenta will perfectly complement this rustic dish.

Practical tips:

- For a more intense flavor: You can add your favorite spices, such as garlic or smoked paprika, to give the recipe a special touch.
- Variations: Instead of ham, you can use pork or chicken, adjusting the cooking time based on the type of meat chosen.
- Refreshing: This dish pairs excellently with a dry white wine or a cold craft beer, complementing the rich flavors of the food.
- Storage: You can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days, and the taste will be even better the next day when the flavors meld.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use fresh cabbage? Although the traditional recipe uses pickled cabbage, you can adapt the recipe with fresh cabbage, but you will need to sauté it a bit beforehand to give it a deeper flavor.
- What can I do with leftovers? You can transform leftovers into a delight by making a soup or a pilaf, adding rice and vegetables.
- Is this recipe healthy? Ham is a good source of protein, and pickled cabbage contains probiotics that support digestive health. However, it’s best to consume the dish in moderation due to its salt content.

In conclusion, this ham with cabbage in the oven recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of warmth and comfort to your home. Get ready to enjoy a savory dish that will surely become a family favorite! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 slice of ham weighing approximately 1 kg 800 g pickled cabbage 4-5 tomatoes 1 onion 50 g celery 1-2 carrots 200 ml broth a few sprigs of dill, parsley 50 ml oil salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, seasoning for roast optional 1 cube of smoked bacon concentrate