Stuffed cabbage rolls in a nest with smoked meat

Stuffed Cabbage Nest with Smoked Meat: A Taste Journey into the Heart of Culinary Traditions

Who doesn't love the inviting aroma of stuffed cabbage cooked with love and passion? These delights, full of flavor, are much more than just a meal; they are a story in every bite, a symbol of family gatherings and festive joys. Today, I invite you to discover the recipe for stuffed cabbage nests with smoked meat, a dish that will enrich your festive tables and beyond.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1-2 hours
Total time: 1.5-2.5 hours
Number of servings: 6-8

Necessary ingredients:

- 700 g pork belly (for a rich and juicy taste)
- 300 g beef (for a finer texture)
- 1 large onion (for an extra flavor)
- 4 fresh tomatoes or 2 tablespoons of tomato paste (for a pleasant acidity)
- 4 tablespoons oil (to sauté the onion)
- 3 tablespoons pepper paste (for a sweet and smoky note)
- 100 g round grain rice (for a consistent filling)
- 1 pickled cabbage (for the cabbage leaves)
- Greens (dill, parsley, as preferred)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Dried thyme (for a distinct aromatic note)
- 300 g smoked bacon or kaiser (to add a touch of smokiness)
- 1 cup tomato juice (for a delicious sauce)
- 1 cup white wine (for an extra depth of flavor)

Prelude to cooking:

Stuffed cabbage has a long and diverse history, prepared in various forms and combinations in many cultures. In Romania, stuffed cabbage is often associated with festive meals, bringing together family and friends. This recipe we propose today, with smoked bacon, adds an extra layer of flavor and aroma, turning every meal into a celebration of culinary tradition.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by finely chopping the onion. This step is essential, as sautéed onion will bring an unforgettable layer of flavor to your stuffed cabbage.

2. Sautéing the onion:
In a pan, add the 4 tablespoons of oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent and slightly golden. This will take about 5 minutes.

3. Adding the tomatoes:
If using fresh tomatoes, grate them or blend them to obtain a puree. Add the blended tomatoes or tomato paste to the pan, along with the pepper paste. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture becomes homogeneous.

4. Preparing the filling:
In a large bowl, add the minced pork and beef, mixing well. Add salt, pepper, dried thyme, washed and drained rice, chopped greens, and the sautéed onion mixture. Mix all ingredients well until homogeneous. Let the filling rest for 10 minutes for the flavors to combine.

5. Preparing the cabbage:
The pickled cabbage must be well desalinated. Soak the cabbage in a bowl of cold water for 20-30 minutes. Remove the leaves one by one and remove the thick vein from the base of each leaf.

6. Assembling the stuffed cabbage:
On the bottom of a large pot, place two sprigs of thyme and cover with finely chopped cabbage. Add slices of smoked bacon.
Using the large cabbage leaves, form stuffed cabbage with the prepared filling. Place 3-4 stuffed cabbages on a large cabbage leaf and roll them tightly. Place all the nests of stuffed cabbage in the prepared pot.

7. Cooking the stuffed cabbage:
Cover with another layer of chopped cabbage and the remaining slices of bacon. Pour in the tomato juice, white wine, and 1-2 cups of water until the stuffed cabbage is covered. Cover the pot with a lid.
Place the pot in the oven preheated to 160°C and let it simmer on low heat for 1-2 hours. It is important to periodically check the sauce, ensuring it doesn't reduce too much.

8. Serving:
Once the stuffed cabbage is ready, carefully remove it from the pot and place it on plates. Serve it alongside a spoonful of cabbage, a slice of smoked bacon, and a portion of polenta. Optionally, you can add sour cream for a creamy taste.

Useful tips:

- For a richer filling, you can add some chopped mushrooms or diced bacon.
- Taste the filling before using it, so you can adjust the spices to your liking.
- Stuffed cabbage can also be cooked on low heat on the stove if you prefer not to use the oven.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use chicken meat?
Yes, you can use chicken or turkey, but the texture and flavor will be different.

2. What can I use instead of rice?
You can use quinoa or basmati rice for a healthier option.

3. How can I store stuffed cabbage?
Stuffed cabbage stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. They can also be frozen for later use.

4. What can I pair with stuffed cabbage?
These delicious stuffed cabbages pair perfectly with a dry white wine or plum brandy for a pleasant contrast.

Nutritional benefits:

Stuffed cabbage is an excellent source of protein due to the meat and rice, while pickled cabbage provides significant vitamins and probiotics, contributing to digestive health. Additionally, the smoked bacon offers healthy fats essential for the body, but consumption should be moderate.

In the end, remember that cooking is an art, and every dish tells a story. With each serving of stuffed cabbage nest with smoked meat, you bring a touch of culinary tradition into your life. I invite you to enjoy this delicious dish and share it with your loved ones. Bon appétit!