Stuffed cabbage rolls

Cabbage Rolls – A traditional recipe, full of flavor and warmth

Who hasn't heard of cabbage rolls? This classic dish, steeped in tradition and family memories, is a true feast for the senses. Being a versatile dish, cabbage rolls can be served on various occasions, from holiday meals to weekend lunches. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step in preparing delicious cabbage rolls that are not only tasty but also healthy. Let's get started!

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:
- 400 g minced beef
- 100 g rice
- ½ pickled cabbage (or fresh, if you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 50 g tomato paste
- 1 onion, grated
- 1 bunch of fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- (Optional) a few slices of bacon for extra flavor

Preparing the cabbage rolls:
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the rice under a stream of cold water, then let it drain. The minced beef should be of good quality; you can opt for meat with a lower fat percentage so that the cabbage rolls are healthier.

2. Mixing the filling: In a large bowl, combine the minced meat, drained rice, grated onion, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed. If you like, you can also add a few slices of bacon to this mixture for a richer taste.

3. Preparing the cabbage leaves: If using pickled cabbage, carefully detach the cabbage leaves. It is important to choose large and flexible leaves so that you can easily wrap the filling. If using fresh cabbage, you will need to blanch it first to make it softer.

4. Wrapping the cabbage rolls: Take a cabbage leaf, place a tablespoon of the meat mixture at the top of the leaf, and wrap it tightly, folding in the sides. Continue doing this for all the cabbage leaves and the meat mixture until everything is ready.

5. Preparing the pot: In a large pot, add a tablespoon of olive oil and a little tomato paste. Line the bottom of the pot with a few cabbage leaves or baking paper to prevent the rolls from sticking.

6. Cooking the cabbage rolls: Place the cabbage rolls in the pot, side by side, and add enough water to cover them. You can also add the remaining tomato paste for extra flavor. Cover the pot and let the cabbage rolls simmer on low heat for about an hour. It is essential to keep the temperature low to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.

7. Serving: Cabbage rolls are delicious served hot, alongside sour cream and a slice of fresh bread. You can also add a green salad for a refreshing contrast.

Useful tips:
- Meat varieties: You can experiment with meat blends, adding pork or chicken to the beef mixture.
- Filling variations: Instead of rice, you can use quinoa or bulgur for a healthier option.
- Spices: Add a pinch of sweet or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
- Storing cabbage rolls: If you made a larger batch, the cabbage rolls can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for later consumption.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of cabbage rolls contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. They are an excellent source of protein from the meat, while the rice provides complex carbohydrates necessary for energy. Pickled cabbage is rich in probiotics, which contribute to digestive health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh cabbage?
Yes, but you will need to blanch it to make it easier to handle.

2. Can I make vegan cabbage rolls?
Absolutely! You can replace the meat with chopped mushrooms or vegetables, while the rice remains a staple ingredient.

3. How can I enhance the flavor of the cabbage rolls?
You can add spices like thyme or oregano to the meat mixture.

This cabbage rolls recipe is not just a dish but a true culinary experience, full of tradition and love. Let's enjoy every bite together! Bon appétit!