Savory Cabbage Pie

Description

Savory Cabbage Pie is a comforting, rustic dish featuring tender sautéed cabbage, onions, herbs, and cheese baked inside a soft, golden crust or batter. Popular in many European home kitchens, this pie is budget-friendly, nutritious, and satisfying enough to serve as a main course or hearty side dish. It has a crisp exterior with a moist, flavorful filling that pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or yogurt.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 1 medium green cabbage (about 700 g), finely shredded
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella
• ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

For the Batter

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ cup vegetable oil or melted butter

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat oil in a large skillet.
2. Sauté onions for 3–4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add shredded cabbage.
5. Cook for 10–12 minutes until softened.
6. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.
7. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
8. Stir in parsley, mozzarella, Parmesan, and eggs.

Step 2: Make the Batter

1. Mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl whisk eggs, milk, and oil.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9-inch baking dish.
3. Spread half the batter.
4. Add cabbage filling evenly.
5. Pour remaining batter over the top.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the batter comes out clean.

Step 5: Serve

Allow the pie to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Recipe Notes

• Green cabbage works best, but Napa or Savoy cabbage can also be used.
• Let the cabbage cool slightly before adding eggs.
• Fresh herbs add brighter flavor than dried.
• The pie slices better after resting.

Tips for Success

• Avoid overcooking the cabbage.
• Drain any excess liquid from the filling.
• Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.
• Add cooked bacon, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor.
• Brush the top with melted butter before baking for a richer crust.

Variations

• Vegetarian: As written.
• Meat Lover’s: Add cooked ground beef or sausage.
• Low-Carb: Replace flour with almond flour and use a low-carb baking mix.
• Spicy: Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Mediterranean: Add feta cheese, olives, and dill.

Serving Suggestions

• Green salad
• Tomato soup
• Greek yogurt or sour cream
• Pickled vegetables
• Roasted potatoes

Servings

Makes: 8 servings

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Values are approximate and will vary depending on ingredients used.

Health Benefits

• Rich in vitamin C from cabbage.
• Good source of dietary fiber for digestive health.
• Contains calcium and protein from cheese.
• Provides antioxidants that help support overall wellness.
• Budget-friendly and filling.
• Can be made with whole-grain flour for additional fiber.

Storage

Refrigerator:

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer:

• Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

• Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
• Microwave: 1–2 minutes per slice.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

1. Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble it up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate before baking.

2. Can I freeze it?

Yes. Freeze baked slices after they have cooled completely.

3. What cheese works best?

Mozzarella, cheddar, Gouda, Swiss, or a combination all work well.

4. Can I use red cabbage?

Yes, though it will produce a different color and a slightly earthier flavor.

5. How do I keep the pie from becoming watery?

Cook the cabbage until most of its moisture evaporates and drain any excess liquid before assembling.

6. Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

7. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, provided the cheeses used are made with vegetarian-friendly rennet if that is a concern.

8. What protein can I add?

Cooked chicken, turkey, ham, ground beef, or crumbled sausage are all excellent additions.

9. Can I serve it cold?

Yes. It is delicious warm, at room temperature, or chilled.

10. What herbs pair well with cabbage?

Parsley, dill, thyme, chives, oregano, and rosemary all complement cabbage nicely.