Baked Cabbage with Cheese and Creamy Sauce

Baked Cabbage with Cheese and Creamy Sauce

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
  • Butter: 40 g
  • Flour: 1 tablespoon

• • Milk: 100 ml (additional if needed)
  • Nutmeg: a pinch
  • Salt: to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cabbage:
   • Cut the cabbage into 1.5-2 cm thick slices.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
   • • In a saucepan, melt the butter 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.