Stuffed cabbage rolls

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls – A Traditional Recipe That Delights Home Cooking

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a symbol of hospitality and rich culinary traditions, often served on special occasions, at festive meals, or during family gatherings. This recipe not only offers a savory taste but also an opportunity to create beautiful memories around the table. I invite you to discover step by step how to prepare delicious stuffed cabbage rolls, with a rich and flavorful filling that will bring a smile to your face!

Preparation Time
- Preparation: 30 minutes
- Cooking: 40 minutes
- Total: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Servings: 6

Essential Ingredients
- 600 g minced meat (a mix of beef and pork for a balanced taste)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 ½ cups of rice (approximately 250 g)
- 400 ml tomato paste (puree)
- 2 smaller cabbages (or one large cabbage, depending on size)
- Salt and spices for the rolls (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 teaspoons paprika (smoked for extra flavor)
- Thyme (fresh or dried, as preferred)
- 3 tablespoons of oil
- 100 g summer sausage (finely chopped)
- A few pieces of bacon (for a smoky flavor)

Step 1: Preparing the Cabbage
The first step in making perfect cabbage rolls is preparing the cabbage. Start by placing the cabbage in a large pot of water mixed with vinegar and salt to taste. Blanching the cabbage helps soften the leaves, making them easier to roll. Let the cabbage boil until the leaves become soft and easily separate.

Helpful Tip: If the cabbage is too tough, you can boil it a little longer, but be careful not to make it too soft, so it doesn't break.

Step 2: Preparing the Filling
While the cabbage is blanching, you can prepare the filling. Finely chop the two onions and sauté them in the 3 tablespoons of oil until they become translucent and fragrant. Add the minced meat and finely chopped sausage, mixing well.

Tip: Use a food processor to chop the sausage if you don’t want to cut it by hand. This will save time and ensure an even texture.

Once the meat starts cooking, add the paprika and the spices for the rolls. Mix well and let the mixture cool slightly, then add the rice. Continue to sauté the mixture for 2-3 minutes, then add half a cup of water to help cook the rice.

Step 3: Filling the Rolls
When the cabbages are ready, remove them from the water and let them cool slightly. Carefully remove the leaves, and if they are too large, you can cut them in half. Place a tablespoon of filling on each leaf and roll them tightly, ensuring the filling is well covered.

Frequently Asked Question: How tight should the rolls be? Make sure they are well wrapped, but don’t overdo it, as the rice will expand during cooking.

Step 4: Arranging and Cooking the Rolls
On the bottom of a large pot, place a layer of finely chopped cabbage, sprinkle thyme, and a few pieces of bacon to add a smoky flavor. Carefully arrange the rolls next to each other. Continue adding layers of rolls if necessary until you finish the filling.

Mix 300 ml of tomato paste with water and salt to taste and pour the mixture over the rolls, so they are completely covered. Meanwhile, add water if needed.

Step 5: Final Cooking
Put the pot on low heat and let the rolls simmer for 35-40 minutes. If you notice that the water decreases, add a little cold water over them. Check if the rice is cooked, and the rolls are ready when all the flavors have perfectly combined.

Serving Tip: Serve the rolls warm, with sour cream and fresh dill sprinkled on top. They pair perfectly with steaming polenta for a delicious traditional meal.

Nutritional Benefits
Stuffed cabbage rolls are an excellent source of protein due to the meat and rice, while cabbage provides plenty of vitamins and fiber. This dish is rich in nutrients, but it's important to be mindful of portions, considering the fat content from the bacon and sausage.

Possible Variations
- Vegetarian: You can replace the meat with mushrooms or finely chopped vegetables, such as carrots and zucchini.
- Spices: Experiment with various spices, such as anise or fennel seeds, for a more exotic flavor.
- Sauce: Add a garlic sour cream sauce to enhance the taste even further.

Conclusion
This stuffed cabbage roll recipe is not just a delicious dish but also a way to bring the family together. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cook, with each step, you will discover the joy of cooking and sharing. Don’t forget to have fun and add a personal touch to your recipe by incorporating ingredients you love. Enjoy your meal!