Oltenian cabbage rolls

Oltenian Cabbage Rolls: Tradition and Tempting Flavor

When it comes to traditional dishes, cabbage rolls hold a special place in the hearts of many of us. These delicious rolls of cabbage stuffed with meat and rice are more than just a simple meal - they are an integral part of culinary tradition, bringing family together around the table, especially during festive times. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step to prepare the most delicious Oltenian cabbage rolls, filled with flavors and love.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Ingredients:
- 1 kg ground pork (a mix of lean and fatty meat for more flavor)
- 200 g pork cracklings (for added taste and texture)
- 2 pickled cabbages (choose well-fermented cabbages with tender leaves)
- 3 medium onions (for a sweet and aromatic flavor)
- 100 g rice (preferably long-grain, ideal for stuffing)
- 200 g tomatoes in broth (for a touch of acidity)
- 150 g smoked bacon (adds a rich, smoky flavor)
- 30 ml oil (sunflower or olive oil, for sautéing the onion)
- 2 teaspoons thyme (a classic flavor that pairs perfectly with meat)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley (for freshness)
- 1 L pickled cabbage juice (for boiling)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Bay leaves (for flavor)

Preparing the cabbage rolls:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the meat well and cutting it into small cubes. This is an important step as it will help achieve a uniform texture. The cracklings, a traditional ingredient, will give the cabbage rolls an intense flavor. Pass them through a meat grinder and set aside.

2. The onion: Peel the onions and chop them finely. In a skillet, add the oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent and slightly golden. This process will release the natural sweetness of the onion.

3. The filling mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, cracklings, sautéed onion, rice, thyme, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well so that the flavors blend perfectly. It is essential that the filling is well-seasoned, so don’t hesitate to adjust the salt and pepper to taste.

4. Preparing the cabbage: Now, let’s take care of the cabbage. Wash the pickled cabbages under a stream of cold water to remove excess salt. Choose the most beautiful and largest leaves to use for stuffing.

5. Filling the cabbage rolls: Take a cabbage leaf and place a tablespoon of the filling mixture in the center. Fold the edges of the leaf to form a small roll. Make sure the filling is well sealed so it doesn’t open during cooking. Continue until you finish all the ingredients.

6. Assembling the cabbage rolls: Chop the leftover cabbage and place it at the bottom of a large pot. This will prevent the cabbage rolls from sticking. Arrange the cabbage rolls in layers, interspersing with smoked bacon and bay leaves. Add the tomatoes in broth and fill with pickled cabbage juice until the rolls are covered.

7. Boiling: Cover the pot with a lid and let the cabbage rolls simmer on low heat for about 2 hours. Here, the secret is patience; the low heat will allow the flavors to blend perfectly.

8. Serving: The cabbage rolls are served hot, either with sour cream or with hot peppers for an extra kick. Personally, I love to accompany them with a slice of warm polenta, which perfectly complements the texture and flavor.

Practical tips:
- Cabbage: If the pickled cabbages are too salty, you can soak them in cold water for 30 minutes before use.
- Cracklings: If you don’t have cracklings, you can substitute with lard or even olive oil, although the flavor won’t be as intense.
- Variations: You can add grated carrots or bell peppers to the filling for a more complex taste. Some families even add mushrooms for extra moisture.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use fresh cabbage? Theoretically, yes, but the cabbage rolls will have a different texture. Pickled cabbage offers a distinct taste and a more intense aroma.
- How long can I keep the cabbage rolls? The cabbage rolls keep well in the fridge for a few days and can be frozen for later use.

Nutritional benefits:
Cabbage rolls are an excellent source of protein due to the pork and rice, while the pickled cabbage adds probiotics that aid digestion. They also contain fiber and essential vitamins, making them a nutritionally balanced dish.

Ideal pairings:
Oltenian cabbage rolls pair perfectly with a cold drink, such as a glass of white wine or a pale beer. Additionally, a green salad with tomatoes and red onion will add freshness to the meal.

In conclusion, cooking Oltenian cabbage rolls is not just a culinary process, but also a cultural and family experience. So put on your apron, gather your loved ones, and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen! These cabbage rolls are not just a recipe, but a tradition that continues to bring joy and warmth to our homes. Enjoy your meal!