Savory Pork and Cabbage Bake is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender pork neck with the crispiness of cabbage and the creamy goodness of mozzarella cheese. This recipe brings together a delightful medley of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy your family’s appetite. The carbonated water helps keep the meat juicy while the sweet paprika adds depth to the overall taste. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, this dish can be easily prepared in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

2 pcs cabbage (medium-sized)
30 ml (1 fl oz) vegetable oil

1.3 kg (3 lb) pork neck, cut into chunks
5 g (0.2 oz) salt (to taste)
5 g (0.2 oz) black pepper (to taste)

1 onion, chopped
5 g (0.2 oz) sweet paprika
300 ml (10 fl oz) carbonated water

2 g (0.1 oz) black pepper (for seasoning)
2 tomatoes, sliced
100 g (3.5 oz) mozzarella, shredded

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Wash and Cut the Cabbage:
Rinse the cabbage under cold water. Remove any wilted or damaged outer leaves. Cut the cabbage into quarters and remove the core. Slice the cabbage into thin strips.

Step 2: Brown the Pork Neck

Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 30 ml of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
Season and Sear the Meat:
Season the pork neck chunks with 5 g salt and 5 g black pepper. Add the meat to the skillet in batches, if necessary, to avoid overcrowding. Sear the meat for about 5-7 minutes on each side until browned.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion

Add Chopped Onion:
Once the pork is browned, add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
Add Sweet Paprika:
Stir in 5 g sweet paprika and mix well, allowing it to cook for an additional minute to release its flavors.

Step 4: Add Liquid and Cabbage

Deglaze with Carbonated Water:
Pour in 300 ml of carbonated water and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds great flavor to your dish.

Incorporate Cabbage:
Add the sliced cabbage on top of the pork and onion mixture. Gently stir to combine, ensuring the cabbage is coated with the juices.

Step 5: Layer the Tomatoes and Cheese

Add Tomatoes:
Layer the sliced tomatoes on top of the cabbage mixture.
Top with Mozzarella:
Sprinkle 100 g of shredded mozzarella evenly over the tomatoes. This will melt beautifully and create a deliciously cheesy topping.

Step 6: Cook the Dish

Cover and Simmer:
Cover the skillet or Dutch oven with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 45-60 minutes, or until the pork is tender and the cabbage is cooked down.
Check Seasoning:
Taste the dish towards the end of cooking. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper as needed.

Cooking Tips:

Choosing Pork Neck:
Pork neck is a great choice for this recipe due to its rich flavor and tenderness when slow-cooked. If unavailable, you can substitute with pork shoulder.

Enhancing Flavors:
Feel free to add additional spices such as thyme, rosemary, or a dash of chili flakes for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this dish with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Storage:

Refrigeration:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Freezing:
This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
Protein: 30 g

Fat: 20 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Fiber: 4 g

Sodium: 400 mg

(Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

FAQs:

Can I use different vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to enhance the dish’s nutritional profile.

Is it necessary to use carbonated water?
The carbonated water helps to tenderize the meat and adds a unique flavor, but you can substitute with regular water or broth if needed.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated for an easy meal throughout the week.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, crusty bread, or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the pork with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and add vegetable broth for a flavorful vegetarian option.

Conclusion:

Savory Pork and Cabbage Bake is a deliciously comforting dish that is not only easy to prepare but also filled with robust flavors. The combination of tender pork, vibrant vegetables, and creamy mozzarella creates a meal that is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe is a perfect choice. Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every bite!