Sweet Sautéed Cabbage

Instructions

1. Start by giving your cabbage a good wash, then chop it into bite-sized pieces. Don't worry about being too precise – rustic is good!
2. Peel those carrots and slice them into thin rounds. Think coin-thickness and you'll be spot on.
3. Time for some onion action! Peel and chop it finely. If you tear up, no worries – it happens to the best of us!
4. Peel the garlic cloves and give them a good crush. Your kitchen should be smelling amazing right about now.
5. Grab your favorite large skillet or sauté pan and heat up that olive oil over medium heat.
6. Toss in the chopped onions and crushed garlic. Let them sizzle away for 2-3 minutes until the onions turn translucent and your kitchen smells heavenly.
7. Now, add your cabbage and carrot slices to the party. Give everything a good stir and let it cook for about 5 minutes. You'll notice the veggies starting to soften up.
8. Time to spice things up! Add the tomato paste, caraway, thyme, and rosemary. Stir it all together until your veggies are wearing a nice, flavorful coat.
9. Pour in the veggie broth and toss in those bay leaves. Bring everything to a gentle simmer – we're not boiling soup here!
10. Now for the sweet touch – stir in the maple syrup. Turn the heat down to low, pop a lid on, and let it all simmer away for about 15-20 minutes. You're looking for tender cabbage here.
11. While that's happening, mix the cornstarch with a couple tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl. This is your secret weapon for a silky sauce!
12. Fish out those bay leaves – their job is done.
13. Pour in your cornstarch mix, turn up the heat to medium, and cook for another 2-3 minutes. You'll see the sauce start to thicken up nicely.
14. Give it a taste and add salt and pepper until it's just right for you.
15. Take it off the heat and let it sit for a few minutes. It'll be piping hot!
16. Serve it up alongside some creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food experience. Enjoy!