Stuffed cabbage rolls

Delicious recipe for stuffed cabbage rolls in pickled cabbage leaves

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a beloved traditional dish in many cultures, often associated with holidays and special moments spent with family. This simple and tasty recipe for stuffed cabbage rolls in pickled cabbage leaves will take you on a journey of flavors and textures, bringing a piece of culinary tradition to your table.

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

Ingredients
- 1 kg pork (choose lean meat or a combination with beef for a more complex flavor)
- 300 g onion (about 2 large onions)
- 2 pickled cabbages (make sure they are well fermented for a rich taste)
- 100 g rice (preferably long-grain for a pleasant texture)
- 200 g tomato paste (you can use fresh tomato puree for a more vibrant taste)
- 150 g smoked bacon (optional, but adds extra flavor)
- 1 liter of cabbage juice (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- Oil (for sautéing)
- Thyme (fresh or dried, according to preferences)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by cutting the pork into small cubes, then use a meat grinder to turn it into a fine paste. This step will ensure a uniform texture for the cabbage rolls. You can also use a food processor if you prefer.
Peel the onion and chop it finely. Divide the onion into two parts: one part will be used for the filling, and the other part for garnishing the cabbage rolls.

2. Sautéing the onion and rice
In a large skillet, add a tablespoon of oil and sauté half of the chopped onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Then, add the washed rice and mix well, allowing it to sauté with the onion for 3-4 minutes. This step will help the rice absorb the flavors and prevent it from sticking in the cabbage rolls.

3. Filling mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, sautéed onion with rice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed. It is important to taste the mixture to adjust the spices according to your preferences.

4. Preparing the cabbage
Now it's time to deal with the cabbages. Unfold the pickled cabbage leaves and, if they are too salty or acidic, you can rinse them quickly under cold running water. Carefully cut the cabbage leaves into suitable sizes for filling.

5. Forming the cabbage rolls
Take a cabbage leaf and place a tablespoon of the meat mixture at the edge of the leaf. Wrap the cabbage roll, folding the side edges to seal the filling. Repeat the process until you finish all the ingredients.

6. Cooking the cabbage rolls
In a large pot, place a layer of chopped cabbage at the bottom to prevent the cabbage rolls from sticking. Arrange the cabbage rolls in layers, adding small pieces of smoked bacon and the remaining onion between the layers. After placing all the cabbage rolls, pour the tomato paste, cabbage juice, and about a liter of water over them, making sure they are covered.
Simmer over medium heat for about 2 hours. The cabbage rolls will be ready when the meat is tender and the flavors have blended perfectly.

7. Serving the cabbage rolls
After the cabbage rolls are cooked, let them cool slightly before serving. They can be garnished with sour cream and fresh dill, adding a refreshing note. Cabbage rolls are also excellent served alongside warm polenta or a slice of homemade bread.

Practical Tips
- Ingredients: Choose pork with a moderate fat content to keep the cabbage rolls juicy. You can also add some chopped garlic to the filling for extra flavor.
- Variations: Instead of pickled cabbage, you can use grape leaves or spinach for a lighter version. You can also experiment with spices, such as paprika or a few bay leaves.
- Storing cabbage rolls: Cabbage rolls can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or can be frozen for later consumption. Before freezing, make sure they have cooled completely.

Nutritional Information
Cabbage rolls are an excellent source of protein due to the meat and rice, and pickled cabbage provides beneficial probiotics for digestion. A serving of cabbage rolls (about 2-3 rolls) contains around 350-450 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken or turkey?
Yes, you can use chicken or turkey, but the cabbage rolls will have a different flavor and may be less fatty.

- Can I prepare the cabbage rolls a day in advance?
Absolutely! Cabbage rolls can be prepared a day in advance, and their flavor will intensify after sitting in the refrigerator.

- How can I enhance the flavor of the tomato paste?
You can add a teaspoon of sugar or a grated carrot to the tomato paste to balance the acidity.

Serving Suggestions
Cabbage rolls pair perfectly with a dry white wine or a refreshing fruit drink. You can also add a fresh summer salad alongside to complete the meal.

Personal Note
I fondly remember the cabbage rolls cooked by my grandmother, who gathered us all around the table. This recipe is not just a culinary dish but a symbol of unity and familial love. I encourage you to share these moments with your loved ones because every serving of cabbage rolls is a story of tradition and warmth.

Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!