Rice and Cabbage: a winning combination that captures all the flavor and warmth of homemade winter cooking! When temperatures drop, there’s nothing more satisfying than a steaming dish capable of warming both body and soul. If you’re looking for a rice and cabbage recipe that is both nutritious, delicious, and incredibly comforting, you’re in the right place! This first course demonstrates that with a few simple ingredients, you can create healthy and tasty dishes. The cabbage, with its crunchy leaves and distinctive flavor, pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the rice, creating a unique and enveloping taste balance. Whether you prefer it as a perfectly creamy risotto with cabbage or as a more brothy rice and cabbage soup, this preparation is incredibly versatile and suitable for every palate. But that’s not all! This dish is ideal as a hearty main course for a family dinner, or as a robust first course for a lunch that recharges your energy. Don’t miss the chance to bring to the table a timeless classic that never ceases to surprise and delight with our unmistakable rice and cabbage recipe!
If you like cabbage, also try:
- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Cost: Very Cheap
- Preparation time: 10 Minutes
- Portions: 4 People
- Cooking methods: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: Autumn, Winter
Ingredients for rice and cabbage
- 1.1 lbs Savoy cabbage
- 1 onion
- 1.4 cups Carnaroli rice
- 8.5 cups vegetable broth
- to taste grated Parmesan cheese
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
- to taste extra virgin olive oil
Tools
- Pot
- Knife
- Cutting board
How to make rice and cabbage
To prepare the rice and cabbage, first prepare the vegetable broth and keep it warm. Then clean the cabbage: remove the outer leaves and core, then cut the cabbage into thin strips. Wash it thoroughly.
Chop the onion with a knife, then place it in a pot with a drizzle of oil and sauté for a few minutes.
Add the cabbage, season with salt, and let it soften over low heat for 5 minutes or until the vegetable is wilted. Stir often.
Pour the hot broth into the pot until it just covers the vegetable, about half of the broth will suffice. Close with a vented lid and cook over medium heat for about 30 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Add the rice and immediately moisten it with the remaining broth, which will be necessary to cook the rice.
When the rice is cooked, turn off the heat, add the Parmesan, and stir for a few minutes. Finish with black pepper, stir and serve immediately. Enjoy your meal!
Storage of Rice and Cabbage
Leftover rice and cabbage can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 1-2 days. Freezing the rice is not recommended, as it tends to lose texture and flavor after thawing.
FAQ (Questions and Answers)
What type of rice is best for Rice and Cabbage?
For a creamy and well-bonded rice and cabbage, rice types like Carnaroli or Arborio, typical of risottos, are ideal. If you prefer a more brothy rice and cabbage soup, you can also use Roma or Originario rice.
Is it necessary to blanch the cabbage before using it?
No, it’s not necessary, it will cook just fine.
Can I enrich the recipe with other ingredients?
Absolutely yes! The rice with cabbage recipe is very versatile. You can add diced pancetta or speck for a savory touch, crumbled sausage, or mixed mushrooms. Even cubed potatoes can be a great addition to make the dish more substantial.
What herbs or spices pair well with Rice and Cabbage?
Garlic, onion, or shallot for the sauté are essential. Freshly ground black pepper, a pinch of nutmeg, and optionally a sprig of rosemary or bay leaves can enhance the flavor of your rice and cabbage.
Can I make Rice and Cabbage in the oven?
Sure! Once the base rice with cabbage recipe is cooked, you can transfer it to a baking dish, sprinkle the surface with grated Parmesan (and perhaps some breadcrumbs) and gratin in a hot oven for 10-15 minutes until a delicious crust forms. A great idea for baked rice and cabbage!
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the rice and cabbage recipe is inherently vegetarian, as long as vegetable broth is used and pancetta or other meats are avoided. It’s a rich and satisfying vegetable and legume soup.
Can I prepare Rice and Cabbage in advance?
Rice, like many dishes, is best freshly made. However, you can prepare the base of cabbage and broth in advance.
