Description
Romanian caramelized cabbage, known as varza calita, is a delightful dish that showcases the humble cabbage in a delicious way. This traditional recipe is popular in Romanian cuisine and is loved for its rich flavors and comforting texture.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 medium green cabbage (about 1.5 kg)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons vinegar (white or apple cider)
Instructions
- Prepare the cabbage by removing damaged outer leaves, cutting it into quarters, and slicing each quarter into thick wedges.
- Sauté one medium onion sliced thinly in 2 tablespoons of olive oil until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine the cabbage wedges with the sautéed onions in a large mixing bowl, then transfer to a large baking dish in a single layer and cover with aluminum foil.
- After 45 minutes of roasting, remove the foil and drizzle 2 tablespoons of vinegar over the cabbage, stirring gently to combine.
- Return the uncovered dish to the oven and roast for another 30-40 minutes until golden-brown and tender, turning the cabbage wedges halfway through.
Notes
- For a heartier dish, consider adding meats like sausage or bacon.
- Vegetarian options can include mushrooms or bell peppers.
- Ensure any added ingredients for vegan versions are plant-based.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Freezing is possible; let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Oven Roasting
- Cuisine: Romanian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Romanian caramelized cabbage, varza calita, cabbage recipe, vegetarian dish