Cabbage and Carrot Bake

This Cabbage and Carrot Bake is a nutritious and flavorful option that’s perfect for any meal. With its blend of tender cabbage, sweet carrots, and melted cheese, it’s a dish that combines health with comfort. It’s easy to prepare and is ideal for those looking to maintain a balanced diet while enjoying a delicious homemade meal. Plus, it’s adaptable to various dietary needs and preferences.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep time: 15 minutes
  • Cook time: 35-40 minutes
  • Total time: 50-55 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cabbage (500g), chopped (approx. 4 cups)
  • 2 carrots, peeled and grated (approx. 1 cup)
  • 1 onion, diced (approx. 1 cup)
  • 4 eggs
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 5 tablespoons flour (approx. 30g) (can substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free flour)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (or sunflower seeds/flaxseeds)
  • 100g mozzarella cheese, shredded (approx. 1 cup) (or alternative cheese)

Directions:

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  • In a large bowl, combine chopped cabbage, grated carrots, and diced onion.
  • Add eggs, black pepper, oregano, and salt to the bowl and mix until well combined.
  • Stir in olive oil, then gradually add flour and mix until evenly distributed. Incorporate sesame seeds.
  • Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the mixture is set.
  • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Let the bake cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of quinoa.
  • Enjoy it as a nutritious breakfast, light lunch, or satisfying dinner.

Cooking Tips:

  • Squeeze excess water from the grated carrots and cabbage to prevent the bake from becoming too watery.
  • For added flavor, try mixing in herbs like parsley or thyme.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Cabbage: High in vitamin U, promotes gastrointestinal health, and is rich in calcium.
  • Carrots: Low in calories, high in carotene, boosts immunity, and supports eye health.
  • Onion: Aids in digestion and fat metabolism, and is high in fiber.
  • Sesame Seeds: Rich in calcium, iron, and magnesium, and supports bone health.

Dietary Information:

  • Suitable for vegetarians.
  • Contains dairy, gluten, and eggs.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximate):

  • Calories: 220
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Fiber: 4g

Storage:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
  • Freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • It’s a healthy, low-calorie option packed with vitamins and fiber.
  • The combination of savory cabbage, sweet carrots, and melted cheese creates a delightful flavor.
  • It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any meal of the day.
  • Versatile and adaptable to various dietary needs.

Conclusion:
This Cabbage and Carrot Bake is a fantastic addition to your meal rotation, offering both nutrition and taste. It’s simple to prepare and can be customized to suit different dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking for a filling breakfast or a satisfying dinner, this bake is sure to please. Share it with family and friends for a wholesome, enjoyable meal!

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
    Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with cheddar, feta, or a dairy-free alternative.
  2. Can I make this bake gluten-free?
    Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour as a substitute for regular flour.
  3. How can I add more protein to this dish?
    Add cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu to increase the protein content.
  4. Can I freeze the leftovers?
    Yes, you can freeze the bake for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven until warmed through before serving.
  5. What can I serve with this bake?
    Pair it with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of quinoa.
  6. Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
    Yes, use egg replacers like flax eggs and plant-based cheese alternatives to make it vegan.
  7. How do I prevent the bake from being too watery?
    Make sure to squeeze excess water from the grated carrots and cabbage before mixing them into the batter.
  8. Can I add other vegetables?
    Definitely! Bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini would be great additions to this bake.
  9. How do I know when the bake is done?
    The bake is ready when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  10. What can I use instead of sesame seeds?
    You can use sunflower seeds, flaxseeds, or omit them altogether.