Charred Cabbage Wedges with Anchovies and Parmesan

Cabbage is a highly underrated and budget-friendly vegetable. Chef Danny Garcia, winner of Top Chef Season 21, broils sweet Savoy cabbage in the oven to achieve pockets of charred flavor before finishing it in the oven until it reaches a crisp-tender texture.

After cooking the cabbage, Garcia enhances its flavor by layering anchovies and Parmesan between the leaves, giving the dish a rich, deep umami taste. A Dijon vinaigrette is drizzled over the leaves for a brightening acidity. It’s important to add the anchovies while the cabbage is still slightly warm so that they can melt a bit into the layers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Savoy cabbage and regular cabbage?

Savoy cabbage has a milder, sweeter flavor with a hint of pepperiness compared to red and green cabbage. It’s easy to distinguish Savoy cabbage from green cabbage because it has wrinkly, dark green outer leaves.

Are anchovies the same as sardines?

Although both anchovies and sardines are oily fish, they are not the same. Sardines usually come from the Pacific and Indian oceans and are larger than anchovies, with a flakier texture. Anchovies can be found in the Pacific, Indian, and Atlantic oceans, as well as in the Mediterranean and Black Seas. And while they have some similar flavors, anchovies tend to have a much stronger flavor and more intense saltiness.

Notes from the Food & Wine Test Kitchen

The anchovies and Parmesan provide enough salt and umami to the cabbage, eliminating the need for extra salt in the recipe. Find Savoy cabbage at specialty grocery stores, Asian supermarkets, and online at melissas.com, or substitute small heads of green cabbage.

Suggested pairing

A mineral-driven white, like Suriol Bancals Xarel-lo, would pair beautifully with this savory, bright side.

Make ahead

Store the cooked cabbage wedges in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Allow them to cool completely to room temperature before storing.

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