This Cabbage and Egg Bake with Cheese is a comforting and simple dish that brings together the savory flavors of sautéed cabbage, onions, and boiled eggs, all topped with a golden cheese crust. Perfect as a hearty main course or a flavorful side dish, this recipe combines nutritious ingredients with a satisfying texture. The cabbage provides a healthy base, while the boiled eggs contribute protein and the cheese adds a rich, melty finish. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this dish is a great way to enjoy vegetables and eggs in a unique way.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Chicken eggs: 3-4 (for boiling)
- Water: Enough to cover eggs
- Young cabbage: 1 small head, chopped (about 4 cups)
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (for sautéing)
- Onions: 2, chopped
- Chicken eggs: 3 (for the batter)
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: To taste
- Cheese: ½ cup (grated, any melty cheese like mozzarella or cheddar)
Directions
1. Prepare Boiled Eggs:
- Place 3-4 eggs in a saucepan and cover them with water.
- Bring the water to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes.
- Once the eggs are done, remove them from heat, cool them under cold water, peel, and slice them.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they are translucent.
- Add the chopped cabbage, season with salt, and cook for another 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
3. Prepare the Batter:
- In a separate bowl, beat 3 eggs.
- Add 1 teaspoon of sugar and a pinch of salt, and whisk until smooth.
4. Assemble the Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil.
- Layer the sautéed cabbage and onions at the bottom of the dish.
- Place the sliced boiled eggs evenly over the cabbage mixture.
- Pour the egg batter over the layers.
- Sprinkle ½ cup of grated cheese over the top.
5. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the eggs are fully set.
6. Serve:
- Let the bake cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm as a main dish or side dish.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Green Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a light, refreshing meal.
- Roasted Potatoes or Rice: Serve alongside roasted potatoes or rice for a more substantial meal.
- With Sour Cream or Yogurt: Add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for extra creaminess.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cabbage: Rich in vitamins C and K, cabbage is a low-calorie vegetable packed with fiber and antioxidants. It supports digestive health and immune function.
- Eggs: A great source of protein, vitamin B12, and iron, eggs are an essential part of a balanced diet, supporting muscle health and cell regeneration.
- Cheese: Packed with calcium, protein, and vitamin B12, cheese contributes to bone health, muscle maintenance, and overall energy.
- Onions: Full of antioxidants, onions help with immune support and contain compounds that can reduce inflammation.
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
The combination of cabbage, eggs, and cheese is a classic in many cultures, with different variations appearing across European and Middle Eastern cuisines. The concept of a cabbage bake is not new; it is a traditional comfort dish that has been reinvented countless times. In the Eastern European kitchen, dishes such as stuffed cabbage rolls and cabbage pie highlight the use of cabbage in various savory bakes. Similarly, the use of eggs in savory dishes has a long history, as eggs were historically a staple ingredient used to bind fillings and enrich stews and bakes. The addition of cheese, particularly cheddar or mozzarella, is a relatively modern adaptation that has become popular in both American and European kitchens. This recipe is popular for its simplicity and nutritional value, offering a balanced meal with vegetables, protein, and healthy fats.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Simple: This recipe combines everyday ingredients like cabbage, eggs, and cheese to create a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Versatile: Whether served as a main dish, side dish, or even a light snack, this recipe is adaptable to any meal of the day.
- Easy to Make: With minimal preparation and cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
- Nutritious: Packed with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins, it’s both healthy and filling.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
- Cabbage offers high levels of vitamin C and fiber, aiding digestion and boosting immunity.
- Eggs provide essential protein and B vitamins, important for maintaining healthy tissues and metabolic function.
- Cheese, rich in calcium and protein, supports strong bones and muscles, while also contributing to overall energy levels.
- Onions, a key ingredient, are loaded with antioxidants that help protect the body against oxidative stress and inflammation.
Tips
- Squeeze out excess moisture from the cabbage after sautéing to avoid a watery dish.
- Use any melty cheese you like, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or even feta for a unique twist.
- Make it dairy-free by using vegan cheese and substituting eggs with a flax or chia seed mixture.
- Add other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.
Variations to Try
- Meat Lovers’ Version: Add cooked ground beef or sausage between the layers of cabbage for a more substantial meal.
- Spicy Version: Incorporate chili flakes or jalapeños into the cabbage mixture for a spicy kick.
- Vegan Version: Use vegan cheese and tofu or flax eggs to make this dish plant-based.
Conclusion
This Cabbage and Egg Bake with Cheese is a deliciously simple and hearty dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. With its rich layers of cabbage, onions, eggs, and cheese, it makes for a perfect main or side dish. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or serving it at a gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
5 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen cabbage for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh cabbage for this recipe, but if you’re using frozen cabbage, make sure to thaw and squeeze out the excess water before using it.
2. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking stage, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
4. What can I serve this dish with?
This dish pairs well with a side of green salad, roasted potatoes, or rice for a complete meal.
5. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, or bell peppers to the mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.