1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Cabbage:
- Remove the loose outer leaves from the cabbage. Place the cabbage on its stem end and slice it into approximately 3/4-inch thick steaks. Be careful to keep the core intact in each steak to help hold it together during baking.
- Arrange the cabbage steaks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Season the Cabbage:
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil and minced garlic. Brush both sides of each cabbage steak with the olive oil and garlic mixture. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- If you’re using any optional garnishes like red pepper flakes, sprinkle them on now before baking.
4. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges of the cabbage steaks start to turn golden brown and crispy. For even more caramelization, you can broil them for an additional 2-5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
5. Serve:
- Carefully transfer the baked cabbage steaks to a serving platter. If desired, finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze right before serving.
Tips for Success:
- Keeping the Steaks Intact: Try to keep part of the core in each steak to help hold the leaves together.
- Even Slices: Ensure your slices are as even as possible for uniform cooking.
- High Heat: Roasting at a high temperature helps to caramelize the cabbage, enhancing its natural sweetness.
- Watch Closely if Broiling: The line between perfect caramelization and burning can be thin, so keep an eye on your cabbage steaks if you choose to broil them for a few minutes at the end.
Baked Cabbage Steaks are a versatile dish that can be customized with various seasonings and toppings to match any meal. Whether served as a side or as a vegetarian main with a hearty grain like quinoa, these steaks offer a delightful way to enjoy cabbage’s natural flavors and nutritional benefits. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this dish!