Oven-baked cabbage rolls in a clay pot

Oven-baked cabbage rolls in a clay pot: A traditional recipe with an unforgettable taste

Who doesn't love the enticing aroma of freshly baked cabbage rolls? When cooked in a clay pot, cabbage rolls become a true delicacy, and their flavor becomes truly special. This oven-baked cabbage roll recipe promises a memorable culinary experience, both through taste and the tradition surrounding them. Here’s how you can prepare the most delicious cabbage rolls, step by step!

Total time: 4 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 3-4 hours
Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients:
- 500 g minced pork
- 600 g minced beef
- 3 heads of pickled cabbage (good leaves are used for rolls, the rest are finely chopped)
- 1 cup long-grain rice (soaked in a bowl of cold water)
- 6-7 medium onions, chopped and sautéed in 100 g oil
- Salt, ground pepper, whole peppercorns, chopped dill, bay leaves
- A bunch of parsley
- 2 large cups of tomato purée dissolved in warm water (enough to cover the rolls by a finger)
- 2 eggs
- A few sprigs of thyme
- Smoked bacon or pork rind (optional, for extra flavor)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the clay pot: Start by soaking the clay pot in water for 30 minutes. This step is essential to prevent the pot from cracking during baking and to allow the rolls to cook evenly.

2. Sautéing the onions: In a pan, add the oil and sauté the chopped onion over low heat until it becomes golden and soft. This will add a sweet and aromatic taste to your rolls. It’s a good trick to use more onions, as it enriches the flavor of the dish.

3. Preparing the filling: Add the rice to the pan and mix it with the onion for 1-2 minutes, until the rice becomes slightly translucent. This step helps maintain the integrity of the rice during boiling.

4. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the minced pork and beef, mixing well with the sautéed onion and rice. Add the spices: salt, pepper, chopped dill, bay leaves, and thyme sprigs. Mix until the ingredients are homogeneous.

5. Binding the mixture: Add the eggs and a handful of white flour to bind the mixture. It is essential that the mix is well homogenized so that the rolls do not fall apart during cooking.

6. Preparing the cabbage leaves: Cut the pickled cabbage into suitable leaves for rolls. The remaining stems are finely chopped and placed at the bottom of the clay pot to form a protective layer.

7. Assembling the rolls: On each cabbage leaf, place a tablespoon of the meat mixture, roll tightly, and secure the edges. Arrange the rolls in the clay pot, in overlapping layers, forming a serpentine pattern. This formation will allow for even cooking.

8. Adding the sauce: Dissolve the tomato purée in warm water and pour it over the rolls, ensuring they are covered by a finger. This sauce will provide a rich flavor and keep the rolls juicy.

9. Baking in the oven: Cover the clay pot with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven at 160°C. Let the rolls bake for 3-4 hours. It is important not to open the oven too often to maintain a constant temperature.

10. Serving: Once the rolls are ready, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, alongside polenta and sour cream. You can also add hot peppers or garlic sauce for extra flavor.

Useful tips:
- Use fresh, quality meat for a juicy filling.
- You can vary the recipe by adding chopped mushrooms or vegetables to the meat mixture for a vegetarian option.
- If you prefer less salty rolls, look for less salty pickled cabbage or rinse the leaves before use.

Nutritional benefits: Cabbage rolls are an excellent source of protein, thanks to the meat and eggs, but they also contain fiber from the cabbage and rice, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken instead of pork or beef? Yes, you can use minced chicken for a lighter option.
- How can I store leftover rolls? Leftover rolls can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days or frozen for later use.
- What can I use instead of a clay pot? If you don’t have a clay pot, you can use a ceramic or metal pot with a lid.

These oven-baked cabbage rolls in a clay pot are not just a delicious meal but also a way to bring family and friends together. Preparing them can become a tradition, and each meal will bring with it unforgettable memories and stories. Enjoy your meal!