Braised Cabbage and Sausages

• 2 Tbsp (30 mL) olive oil, divided
• 4 large mild Italian sausages (or 6 medium sausages)
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1 apple, peeled and cut into wedges
• ½ head cabbage, sliced
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp/5 mL dried thyme)
• 1 Tbsp (15 mL) white vinegar
• ½ tsp (2.5 mL) salt
• ¼ tsp (1 mL) ground black pepper
• ½ cup (125 mL) beef broth

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Heat a heavy, oven-safe skillet or cast iron frying pan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of oil and brown the sausages for 3 minutes per side (or until golden brown).
3. Remove sausages from the pan and set aside. Add the remaining oil and onion. Cook for 2 minutes, or until slightly soft.
4. Add the garlic, apple, cabbage and thyme, and continue to cook for 2 minutes.
5. Add vinegar, salt, pepper, and beef broth. Return the sausages to the pan and cover with a tight-fitting lid or tin foil. Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the lid and stir gently. Return to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes.
7. Serve hot.

Stovetop Variation: Prepare steps 2-5 but, once covered, instead of baking in the oven, raise the heat to high and cook for 10 minutes. Then lower the heat to medium-low and cook on the stovetop for 45 - 60 minutes, stirring once or twice.