Cabbage with Meat Stew (Varza cu Carne)
Ingredients
- 1 medium-sized cabbage (cut into slices or grated)
- 1 tablespoon salt (for kneading cabbage)
- 500 grams pork belly (or any meat of choice, cut into cubes; smoked ribs work great)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 1 cup tomato broth (or regular broth)
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 cups water
- Hot pepper (optional, for extra flavor and heat)
Instructions
- Prepare the cabbage:
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- Cut the cabbage into slices (or grate it if preferred).
- Place it in a large bowl, add 1 tablespoon of salt, and knead it well. This will soften the cabbage and help it cook faster.
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- Cook the meat:
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- Cut the pork belly into cubes (or any meat you prefer).
- In a pot, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the meat and fry it until it gets a little color.
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- Add the onion:
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- While the meat is frying, finely chop 1 onion.
- Once the meat is browned, add the onion to the pot and fry for another minute.
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- Add the broth and cabbage:
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- Pour 1 cup of tomato broth (or regular broth) and 2 cups of water into the pot.
- Add the 2 bay leaves and the kneaded cabbage. Mix everything well.
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- Simmer:
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- Leave the mixture to cook on medium heat until the cabbage softens, stirring occasionally.
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- Serve:
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- Once the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together, remove from heat and serve hot.
- Optionally, you can add hot peppers for a spicy kick.
This Cabbage with Meat Stew is a hearty, comforting dish with savory flavors. Perfect for family meals, it’s easy to make and deeply satisfying! -