Mountain sarmale

Christmas is approaching quickly, bringing with it bittersweet memories from childhood, filled with the scent of fir trees and tempting aromas of traditional dishes. One of the most beloved recipes that reminds us of the warmth of home and moments spent with family is stuffed cabbage rolls. I invite you to discover the recipe for Romanian stuffed cabbage rolls that my mother prepares with so much love and skill, a recipe that has been passed down from generation to generation.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 80 cabbage rolls

Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg ground pork
- sour cabbage leaves (enough to wrap the rolls)
- 1 liter thick tomato juice
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 400 g rice (washed and drained)
- 2 medium onions (finely chopped)
- slices of smoked bacon (a few thin slices)
- thyme (to taste)
- salt (to taste)
- pepper (to taste)
- hot paprika (optional)
- dried dill sprigs
- bay leaves

Preparing the stuffed cabbage rolls:

1. Preparing the filling:
In a pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it gently until it becomes translucent. This step is essential, as the sautéed onion will add a delicate flavor to the mixture.

2. Adding the rice:
Once the onion is sautéed, add the rice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and let it cook for a few minutes until the rice starts to swell slightly.

3. Preparing the sauce:
Put the 2 tablespoons of diluted tomato paste in 1/2 cup of water over the rice in the pan. Gently stir with a wooden spoon and let the mixture cool slightly.

4. Combining the ingredients:
After the rice mixture has cooled, add it to the ground meat. Then, add a full cup of tomato juice. It is important that the tomato juice is enough to create a fluffy filling, but not too soft. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Forming the cabbage rolls:
Take a sour cabbage leaf and place a tablespoon of the meat and rice mixture at the end of the leaf. Roll the leaf, making sure to prevent the filling from spilling out the sides, and press the ends inward to seal the roll. If the cabbage leaves are too thick or stiff, you can gently press them with a rolling pin to make them more pliable.

6. Arranging the rolls in the pot:
Chop the leftover cabbage and place it at the bottom of a large pot. This will prevent the rolls from sticking. Place the slices of bacon over the chopped cabbage, then add a layer of rolls. Drizzle with tomato juice and sprinkle with dried dill sprigs and bay leaves. Repeat the process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of chopped cabbage.

7. Cooking the rolls:
Mix tomato juice with water and pour it over the rolls so that they are almost covered. Place the pot on the stove over high heat until it starts to boil. Then, reduce the heat and cover the pot, transferring it to a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius. Let it simmer for about 2 hours.

8. Checking the rolls:
After an hour of cooking, check the rolls. Use a fork to test if they break easily and if the ingredients inside are soft. If so, the rolls are ready!

Serving:
The cabbage rolls are delicious served with sour cream and warm polenta. A serving suggestion would be to accompany them with a glass of red wine, which will add an elegant touch and perfectly complement the flavors.

Useful tips:
- If the cabbage leaves are too salty, you can wash them well before use.
- For an even more intense flavor, add a few peppercorns to the pot.
- If you want to experiment, try adding chopped fresh dill to the mixture for an extra flavor boost.

Nutritional benefits:
Cabbage rolls are an excellent source of protein due to the pork and rice, also providing fiber from the cabbage. This recipe is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, making it a hearty and nutritious meal.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute pork with beef or chicken, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I store the rolls?
The rolls can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. They can also be frozen for later use.

3. Is it possible to make them vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can use rice, chopped vegetables, and spices to create a delicious meatless filling.

I encourage you to make these cabbage rolls with all the love and patience needed, as the memories created around the table are often the most beautiful. Enjoy the holidays like in fairy tales, alongside your loved ones! Bon appétit!