Cabbage pies are a true testimony to Romanian culinary tradition, a simple yet flavorful dish that takes us back in time to the meals of people living in the countryside. In times long past, when ingredients were carefully chosen from the household pantry, the tender dough and sautéed cabbage were skillfully transformed into delicious pies, served warm at the center of the family table.
This authentic recipe, passed down from generation to generation, was usually prepared on festive days or during moments when the family gathered around the table after a long day of work. The sautéed cabbage, seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and sometimes a touch of paprika, brought a slightly sweet and rustic aroma, perfect to complement the soft and golden dough. The pies were fried on a hot plate or baked in a clay oven, creating a lightly crispy crust on the outside and a juicy filling inside.
These traditional cabbage pies are served best alongside a glass of buttermilk or homemade yogurt, just as our ancestors used to enjoy, offering a refreshing contrast and a note of freshness. Alongside them, a piece of salty cheese could also be placed, enhancing the simple and hearty taste of the pies, transforming this dish into an authentic Romanian meal, savored by everyone at the table.
Cabbage pies are not just food, but a symbol of tradition, a connection with the flavors of the past, filled with warmth, simplicity, and joy.
Ingredient
For the dough:
500 g flour
250 ml warm water
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
7 g dry yeast (or 25 g fresh yeast)
50 ml oil
For the cabbage filling:
1 small cabbage (approximately 700 g)
2–3 tablespoons oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon sweet paprika (optional)
1 bunch fresh dill (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in a little warm water and add the sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
In a large bowl, place the flour and salt, then add the activated yeast, the remaining warm water, and the oil. Knead the dough until it becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands.
Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it doubles in volume.
Step 2: Preparing the Cabbage Filling
Finely chop the cabbage and sprinkle a little salt over it. Let it sit for a few minutes, then squeeze out the excess water.
Heat the oil in a pan and add the cabbage. Sauté the cabbage over low heat, stirring frequently, until it becomes soft and reduces well.
Add the pepper and, if desired, paprika and chopped dill. Mix well and let the filling cool.
Step 3: Forming the Pies
Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball) and roll them into thin sheets, approximately 0.5 cm thick.
Place a spoonful of cabbage filling in the center of each sheet, fold the edges over the filling, and seal well, forming a round or rectangular pie.
Gently flatten each pie with your palm.
Step 4: Cooking the Pies
Heat a large non-stick pan and grease it with a little oil.
Fry the cabbage pies over medium heat, about 3–4 minutes on each side, until they turn golden and crispy. Alternatively, you can bake the pies in the oven at 180°C, on a tray lightly greased with oil, for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
Cabbage pies are best served warm, alongside yogurt or a fresh salad. They are perfect as a snack but also as a main dish, thanks to their hearty and flavorful filling. These traditional pies are ideal for bringing the authentic taste of Romanian cuisine to the table. Enjoy!
What do cabbage pies represent in Romanian culinary tradition?
Cabbage pies are a symbol of simplicity and authenticity in Romanian cuisine, traditionally prepared in Romanian villages, especially during fasting periods or holidays. They reflect the ingenuity of housewives who transformed basic ingredients such as flour and cabbage into delicious and hearty dishes, lovingly served to the whole family.
Why is sautéed cabbage an ideal filling for pies?
Sautéed cabbage is easy to prepare, has a juicy texture and a subtly sweet taste that pairs perfectly with the tender dough of the pies. Seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes paprika or dill, cabbage becomes a flavorful and well-balanced filling, ideal for completing the pies.
How do you obtain a soft and elastic dough for pies?
The dough for pies is made by combining flour with activated yeast, warm water, salt, and oil. Vigorous kneading until the dough becomes elastic, followed by allowing it to rise in a warm place, is essential to achieve an airy and soft texture, ideal for rolling out and filling.
What is the secret to a flavorful cabbage filling?
The secret lies in slowly sautéing the cabbage over low heat until it becomes soft and juicy, and adding the right amount of seasonings. Sweet paprika brings a hint of color and flavor, while freshly chopped dill adds extra freshness and aroma.
What cooking methods can be used for cabbage pies?
The pies can either be fried in a pan greased with a little oil, to obtain a crispy crust, or baked in the oven for a healthier version. Baking ensures an evenly golden texture while keeping the filling juicy.
How can cabbage pies be customized?
Traditional cabbage pies can be customized by adding extra ingredients such as chopped mushrooms, grated cheese, or diced ham. For a stronger aroma, you can also include a little sautéed garlic or ground caraway in the filling.
What are the advantages of preparing cabbage pies at home?
Making pies at home gives you control over the ingredients and flavors, ensuring they are fresh and of high quality. In addition, the cooking process itself is a pleasant and satisfying activity, and the final result is an authentic and healthy dish tailored to your preferences.
How are cabbage pies served for a traditional meal?
The pies are served warm, accompanied by a glass of buttermilk, yogurt, or sour cream to complete their rich taste. They may also be enjoyed with a fresh salad or assorted pickles, which add a refreshing contrast and balance the savor of the pies.
How versatile are cabbage pies in daily meals?
Cabbage pies are extremely versatile, suitable to be eaten as a snack, breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They are perfect both for quick meals and for special occasions, being a hearty yet easy-to-digest dish.
Why are cabbage pies such a beloved dish in Romania?
Cabbage pies are loved because of their simplicity, authentic taste, and the connection they create with tradition and childhood. They bring to the plate the comfort and warmth of a homemade meal, symbolizing hospitality and the joy of sharing food with loved ones.
