AIP Pork and Cabbage Steaks: A Comforting and Flavorful Dish
In my journey toward wellness with autoimmune conditions, I’ve discovered that cooking can be both an art and a source of healing. One of my favorite meals to prepare is this AIP Pork and Cabbage Steaks recipe. It’s a perfect representation of the Autoimmune Protocol’s focus on simple, wholesome ingredients that nourish both the body and soul.
The combination of juicy, seared pork chops with tender cabbage steaks creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. Cabbage, often underestimated, becomes a star player in this dish, transforming from a humble vegetable into a deliciously sweet and caramelized accompaniment. This recipe not only satisfies the taste buds but also brings comfort, making it a great option for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home.
Growing up, I remember hearty meals that brought everyone together at the table. This recipe is reminiscent of those times, filled with warmth and love, yet adapted to fit my dietary needs. The herbs and seasonings elevate the pork and cabbage, making each bite a delicious experience. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to focus on enjoying the moment rather than spending hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re following the AIP diet or simply seeking a nutritious meal, these Pork and Cabbage Steaks are sure to impress. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this comforting dish that embodies both flavor and health!
This AIP Pork and Cabbage Steaks recipe is not just easy to make, but it also brings a lovely, home-cooked feel to your table. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend meal with family and friends. As always, remember to listen to your body and enjoy the process of nourishing yourself with wholesome ingredients.
AIP PORK AND CABBAGE STEAKS
Course: Elimination Phase, MAIN COURSECuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Medium4
servings10
minutes35
minutes345
kcalThis simple yet flavorful dish combines juicy, seared pork chops with tender cabbage steaks, seasoned to perfection. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this recipe aligns with the Autoimmune Protocol, ensuring a nourishing meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Let’s cook together!
Ingredients
1 head of green cabbage (about 1.5 – 2 pounds / 680 – 900 grams)
4 pork chops (approximately 6-8 ounces / 170-225 grams each, or about 1.5 – 2 pounds / 680 – 900 grams total)
1/2 teaspoon (2.5 grams) dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon (2.5 grams) dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon (1.5 grams) garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon (3 grams) sea salt
Additional salt and garlic powder for seasoning the cabbage steaks
2-3 tablespoons (30-45 ml) of avocado oil (or 28-42 grams)
Parsley to garnish
Directions
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your dish cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 teaspoon each of oregano, thyme, garlic powder (if using), and salt. Sprinkle this seasoning mix generously on both sides of the pork chops, ensuring they are well coated.
- Heat 2-3 tablespoons of avocado oil (30-45 ml) in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the seasoned pork chops. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. This step locks in the flavors and keeps the chops juicy.
- Once the pork chops are done, slice the cabbage into 1/2 to 1-inch thick steaks (about 1.5 – 2.5 cm). These will roast beautifully in the oven, becoming tender and flavorful.
- In an oven-safe glass dish (about 9×13 inches or 23×33 cm), arrange the cabbage steaks in a single layer. Place the seared pork chops on top of the cabbage. For added flavor, sprinkle more salt and garlic powder over the cabbage steaks, adjusting the amounts to your taste.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it roast for 30-35 minutes. The cabbage will become tender, and the flavors will meld beautifully with the pork. If you like a bit of caramelization on your cabbage, you can broil it for the last few minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the pork chops on top of the cabbage steaks, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy a comforting meal that’s packed with flavor!
Notes
- Feel free to increase or decrease the herbs and garlic powder to suit your taste preferences. Fresh herbs, like thyme or oregano, can also be used for extra flavor if they’re available.
- For a more roasted, caramelized flavor, you can brush the cabbage steaks lightly with additional avocado oil before roasting. This step enhances the natural sweetness of cabbage and makes it even more tender.
- Both bone-in and boneless pork chops work well for this recipe. Bone-in chops tend to have a bit more flavor and stay juicier, while boneless chops cook slightly faster. Adjust the oven time if using thinner cuts.
- Check the pork for doneness at around 30 minutes if using thinner cuts. The ideal internal temperature for pork is 145°F (63°C). If you prefer a more well-done chop, cook a bit longer until it reaches your desired level.
- If you don’t have an oven-safe dish, you can cook this entirely on the stovetop. After searing the pork chops, set them aside, cook the cabbage in the same pan until it softens, and then return the chops to the pan to finish cooking together for a few minutes.
- These pork and cabbage steaks pair wonderfully with a side of mashed cauliflower or roasted root vegetables for a complete, nourishing meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through to avoid drying out the pork.