Description
This Mediterranean “Marry Me” Melting Cabbage is a dish designed to impress. Tender cabbage wedges are seared to perfection and then braised in a creamy, herb-infused sauce with sun-dried tomatoes. The result is an explosion of flavor and texture that will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe even more!). The combination of smoky paprika, fragrant herbs, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes creates a symphony of tastes that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cabbage. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium green cabbage, cut into 6 thick wedges
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream or canned coconut milk
- ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- Juice of ½ lemon
- ¼ cup crumbled feta or grated Parmesan
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Prepare the cabbage. Cut the cabbage into 6 thick wedges, leaving the core intact so the wedges stay together.
Step 3: Season the cabbage. In a large bowl, toss the cabbage wedges with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Make sure the cabbage is evenly coated with the spices.
Step 4: Sear the cabbage. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish over medium-high heat. Place the cabbage wedges cut-side down in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes, until nicely browned. This step is crucial for developing flavor.
Step 5: Build the sauce. Remove the cabbage wedges from the skillet and set aside. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 6: Deglaze and simmer. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and heavy cream (or coconut milk). Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
Step 7: Bake the cabbage. Nestle the seared cabbage wedges back into the sauce in the skillet. Cover the dish tightly with foil.
Step 8: Bake covered. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
Step 9: Bake uncovered. Remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes, until the cabbage is meltingly tender and the edges are caramelized.
Step 10: Finish and serve. Remove the skillet from the oven. Squeeze the juice of ½ lemon over the cabbage. Sprinkle with crumbled feta or grated Parmesan and fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of smoky, savory, and tangy flavors is irresistible.
- Tender Texture: The cabbage becomes incredibly tender and almost melts in your mouth.
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and uses simple ingredients.
- Versatile: It can be served as a main course or a side dish.
- Impressive: It’s a show-stopping dish that’s perfect for entertaining.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Pair with a side of rice or quinoa.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu.
- Garnish with extra feta or Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
- Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for extra creaminess.
Tips:
- Don’t skip the searing step! It adds a crucial layer of flavor to the cabbage.
- Make sure to cover the dish tightly with foil during the first part of baking to ensure the cabbage steams properly.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking.
- For a vegan option, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and omit the feta or Parmesan cheese.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish, such as onions, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time:
1 hour 25 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
Calories: Approximately 350-450 per serving Protein: 10-15g Sodium: 600-800mg
Conclusion
This Mediterranean “Marry Me” Melting Cabbage is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its tender texture, rich flavors, and beautiful presentation, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a romantic dinner or a family gathering, this recipe is a winner. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different type of cabbage?
A: While green cabbage is the traditional choice for this recipe, you could experiment with other types of cabbage, such as Savoy or Napa cabbage. Keep in mind that different types of cabbage may have slightly different cooking times, so adjust accordingly.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Assemble the cabbage and sauce in the skillet, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Q3: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Freezing is not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate and the cabbage may become mushy upon thawing.
Q4: What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?
A: If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes on hand, you can use roasted red peppers or a tablespoon of tomato paste for a similar flavor profile.
Q5: Can I add meat to this dish?
A: Absolutely! Grilled chicken, sausage, or shrimp would be delicious additions to this recipe. Add the cooked meat to the skillet during the last 15 minutes of baking.
