Stuffed cabbage rolls

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Fresh Cabbage – a Traditional Recipe Full of Flavor and Nostalgia

Stuffed cabbage rolls with fresh cabbage are an excellent choice for a family meal, bringing together the rich flavors of meat, rice, and spices in a comforting and hearty dish. This recipe is not just a simple meal but a symbol of family gatherings and traditions passed down through generations. Additionally, preparing stuffed cabbage rolls can be a joyful activity that you can share with your loved ones.

Total time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg minced meat (a mix of pork and beef)
- 3 large raw cabbages
- 1 egg
- 8 tablespoons of tomato paste (or more, to taste)
- 6 slices of smoked bacon
- 3 tablespoons of lard
- 2 large onions
- 250 g rice
- Dried thyme (to taste)
- Dried dill (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Lemon salt (to taste)
- Bay leaves (2-3 pieces)

The history of stuffed cabbage rolls is fascinating, with deep roots in Eastern European culinary culture. They are often prepared during holidays, but also on ordinary days, symbolizing hospitality. Every housewife has her own version, and the ingredients may vary, but the essence of the taste remains unchanged: flavors combined with love.

Preparing the stuffed cabbage rolls:

1. Preparing the cabbage:
- Start by washing the cabbages well under cold running water. Remove the core with a sharp knife. This step is essential to obtain flexible leaves that are easy to roll.
- In a large pot, add water and lemon salt to taste. Bringing the water to a boil is a crucial moment.
- When the water boils, add the cabbages, making sure they do not float. You can use a lid or a weight to keep them submerged. Boil them until they become soft, similar to pickled cabbage, then remove and let them cool.

2. Preparing the filling:
- In a pan, melt the lard and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté until translucent, then let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the minced meat, washed rice, egg, 8 tablespoons of tomato paste, sautéed onion, thyme, dill, and salt to taste. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous composition.

3. Forming the cabbage rolls:
- Take a cabbage leaf and place a tablespoon of the meat mixture in the center. Roll the cabbage leaf around the filling, folding the edges to seal it.
- Place the formed rolls in a clay pot in layers. Between each layer, add 2 bay leaves, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, and 2 slices of smoked bacon.

4. Cooking the cabbage rolls:
- Fill the pot with water to cover the rolls. Bring to a low heat and let simmer for 30 minutes. Check periodically if more water is needed, adding as necessary.
- After 30 minutes, transfer the pot to a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius. Let it bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, ensuring the rolls do not dry out. The aroma will fill the entire house!

Serving:
Stuffed cabbage rolls with fresh cabbage are served hot, alongside a delicious portion of polenta. Fresh sour cream adds a creamy touch and a pleasant contrast to the flavors of the rolls. You can also add a pickled salad for an extra freshness.

Useful tips:
- If you want to make them easier to digest, you can use whole grain rice instead of white rice.
- For a more intense flavor, add a few peppercorns and a few cloves of garlic to the water when boiling the rolls.
- Always check the consistency of the meat mixture; it should be well-bound but not too wet.
- A delicious variation is to add a few black olives to the filling for a Mediterranean touch.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use pickled cabbage instead of fresh cabbage?
Yes, but the rolls will have a different, saltier, and tangier taste. You will need less salt in this case.

- What can I do with leftover rolls?
The rolls can be stored in the fridge and reheated the next day, but I recommend serving them with a fresh salad side to revitalize their flavor.

- What is the nutritional value of the rolls?
A serving of rolls (about 2-3 rolls) contains approximately 350-400 calories, being rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.

Discover the joy of cooking and bring a touch of tradition to your kitchen with these stuffed cabbage rolls with fresh cabbage! This recipe will not only fill your plate but also your heart, so do not hesitate to share it with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!