Cabbage rolls with smoked ham

Poor cabbage rolls with smoked ham are a true culinary delight, full of flavor and tradition. This recipe combines the rich flavors of minced meat and smoked ham with the freshness of cabbage and the sweetness of tomatoes, turning each bite into a true explosion of tastes. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or want to indulge in a comforting dish, cabbage rolls with smoked ham are the perfect choice.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Total: 3 hours
Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 large cabbages
- 500 g minced meat (pork or a mix with beef)
- 200 g rice
- 3 medium onions
- 500 g smoked ham
- 4 fresh tomatoes
- 700 ml tomato juice
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- Spices for cabbage rolls: salt, sweet paprika, pepper
- Oil for frying

The story of cabbage rolls:
It is said that cabbage rolls have been prepared for thousands of years, having deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. These rolls of meat and rice, wrapped in cabbage leaves, have always been appreciated for their flavor, but also for the fact that they can be prepared in advance and enjoyed for several days in a row. Today, cabbage rolls with smoked ham bring a touch of innovation to classic recipes, offering a distinct and rich taste.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the smoked ham:
Start by boiling the smoked ham in a pot of water. Let it boil for 2 hours to absorb the flavors. This will give a rich taste to the cabbage rolls and will contribute to the delicious sauce you will obtain later.

2. Preparing the cabbage:
Meanwhile, clean the cabbages of the outer leaves and remove the core. Blanch them in boiling salted water for about 5-7 minutes until they become more elastic. After removing them from the water, let them cool slightly, then carefully detach the cabbage leaves from the core. If the veins are too thick, you can cut them with a knife to facilitate wrapping the cabbage rolls.

3. Preparing the filling:
Clean and finely chop the 3 onions. In a large skillet, add a little oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Add the washed rice and mix well for a few minutes. Then, add the minced meat and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Mix the composition well and let it cool for a few minutes.

4. Preparing the tomatoes:
Blanch the tomatoes in hot water for 1-2 minutes, then remove the skin and chop them into cubes. These will add a fresh taste to the filling and will complement the flavor of the cabbage rolls.

5. Assembling the cabbage rolls:
Prepare a large pot for boiling the cabbage rolls. Put a layer of oil on the bottom, then add a little dried thyme and dill. Place the chopped cabbage and diced tomatoes at the bottom of the pot. Take a cabbage leaf, put a tablespoon of the meat and rice mixture in the middle, and carefully wrap it. Place the cabbage rolls tightly in the pot.

6. Adding the ham:
Cut the smoked ham into suitable pieces and arrange them among the cabbage rolls. They will infuse the dish with a wonderful smoky flavor.

7. Finalizing the cooking:
Cover the cabbage rolls with another layer of chopped cabbage, sprinkle a little thyme, and pour in the water in which the ham was boiled, plus the tomato juice. Check if you need to add more water to completely cover the cabbage rolls.

8. Boiling:
Put the pot on the heat and let it boil for about 30 minutes. You can cover the pot with a lid to help retain moisture.

9. Serving:
The cabbage rolls are ready when they are tender and the flavors have blended perfectly. Serve them hot, with or without sour cream, according to your preferences. They pair wonderfully with steaming polenta or a fresh summer salad.

Practical tips:
- For an even richer taste, you can add a few pieces of smoked meat (for example, sausages) in the pot along with the cabbage rolls.
- If you like spicy cabbage rolls, feel free to add a little chopped hot pepper to the filling.
- You can replace the rice with quinoa or buckwheat for a healthier option.
- Cabbage rolls can be easily frozen, so you can prepare a double batch and enjoy them later.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use pickled cabbage?
Yes, pickled cabbage can be used for cabbage rolls, but make sure to rinse it well to reduce acidity.

2. What spices are essential for cabbage rolls?
The most common spices are salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme, but you can experiment with herbs according to your preferences.

3. How can I keep cabbage rolls fresh longer?
Cabbage rolls can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or can be frozen for later consumption.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of cabbage rolls with smoked ham contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. They are a good source of protein from meat and rice, also providing fiber from cabbage, essential for healthy digestion.

Enjoy every step of preparing these cabbage rolls with smoked ham and don’t forget to share this recipe with food lovers around you. Bon appétit!