Baked Cabbage with Cheese and Creamy Sauce
Baked Cabbage with Cheese and Creamy Sauce is a comforting and indulgent dish that brings together the hearty, earthy flavors of cabbage with a rich, velvety sauce. The cabbage is tenderized through baking, while the creamy sauce, often made with a blend of cheese, cream, and seasonings, envelops the vegetable in a deliciously smooth coating. This dish is perfect as a side or even as a main for a cozy meal. The golden-brown cheesy crust that forms on top adds an irresistible crunch, making each bite a satisfying mix of textures and flavors. It’s a simple yet decadent way to enjoy cabbage!
Ingredients:
Cabbage: 1 medium head
Olive oil: 50 ml
Salt: 1 teaspoon
Ground black pepper: to taste
Red pepper: to taste
Herbs de Provence: to taste
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Chili peppers: 0.5 pcs, finely chopped
Cheese: 80 g, grated
Olive oil: 40 ml
Flour: 1 tablespoon
Milk: 100 ml (additional if needed)
Nutmeg: a pinch
Salt: to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Cabbage:
Cut the cabbage into 1.5-2 cm thick slices.
Season the Cabbage:
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, salt, ground black pepper, red pepper, Herbs de Provence, and minced garlic.
Brush the cabbage slices with the seasoned oil mixture.
Bake the Cabbage:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Place the seasoned cabbage slices on a baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes.
Add Cheese and Bake Again:
After baking, sprinkle the grated cheese over the cabbage slices.
Return the cabbage to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
In a saucepan, olive oil over medium heat.
Add the flour and stir constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux.
Gradually add the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
Add a pinch of nutmeg and salt to taste.
If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk to reach the desired consistency.
Serve:
Once the cabbage is done, remove it from the oven and drizzle the creamy sauce over the top.
Optionally, garnish with finely chopped chili peppers for an extra kick.
Enjoy:
Serve hot and enjoy this delicious baked cabbage dish!
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a main dish with a side of roasted potatoes or quinoa.
Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal.
Enjoy it as a side dish with a fresh green salad.
Cooking Tips:
Make sure to cut the cabbage slices evenly to ensure they cook evenly.
You can prepare the seasoned oil mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
For a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Nutritional Benefits:
High in fiber, which aids digestion.
Rich in vitamins C and K from the cabbage.
Contains healthy fats from olive oil and butter.
Cheese provides a good source of calcium and protein.
Dietary Information:
Vegetarian
Gluten-free if you use gluten-free flour for the sauce
Can be made dairy-free by using vegan cheese and butter alternatives
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Not recommended for freezing as the texture may change upon thawing.