Stuffed cabbage rolls

Delicious Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: A Recipe Full of Memories

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 120 minutes
Total time: 150 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Stuffed cabbage rolls are an iconic dish in traditional cuisine, often associated with family gatherings and festive meals. Every housewife has her own recipe, but the essence remains the same: a delicious combination of meat, rice, and spices, all wrapped in pickled cabbage leaves. This recipe not only brings a rich flavor but also unforgettable memories, especially if you have the chance to prepare it alongside loved ones, just as I did with my mother.

Ingredients:

- 3-4 medium pickled cabbages
- 1.5 kg minced pork (or a mix of pork and beef for a more complex flavor)
- 2-3 cups of rice (approximately 300-450 g)
- 1 large onion, grated or finely chopped
- 9-10 tablespoons of tomato paste (or tomato puree)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Dried or fresh thyme
- Optional: a few pieces of smoked meat (bacon or sausages) for a smoky flavor

Ingredient details:

- Pickled cabbage: Choose well-fermented cabbage that is slightly sour. This will add a special flavor to your rolls. If the cabbage is too salty, you can rinse it under cold water before use.
- Minced meat: Pork is classic, but a mix with beef can bring a special note. Make sure to use fresh meat with a moderate fat content to achieve juicy rolls.
- Rice: It is essential to use medium-grain rice. This will absorb the flavors and contribute to the consistency of the rolls.
- Thyme: This aromatic herb is a key ingredient, bringing a unique fragrance. You can use dried or fresh thyme, depending on your preferences.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the cabbage leaves: Start by carefully separating the pickled cabbage leaves. If the leaves are too thick, you can soak them in hot water to make them more flexible. You will need to choose leaves that are large and intact enough to wrap the filling.

2. Preparing the filling: In a large bowl, mix the minced meat with the grated onion, rinsed rice, tomato paste, salt, pepper, and thyme. Use your hands to mix the ingredients well, ensuring that all the flavors combine.

3. Forming the rolls: Take a cabbage leaf and place a tablespoon of the meat mixture in the center. Fold the edges of the leaf so that the filling is completely wrapped. Twist the ends to seal the rolls. Continue until you finish the mixture.

4. Preparing the pot: In a large pot, place a few cabbage leaves at the bottom to prevent the rolls from sticking. Cut the remaining cabbage into thin strips and place them over the cabbage leaves.

5. Arranging the rolls: Arrange the rolls in the pot, forming a concentric circle or pyramid, depending on the size of your pot. Make sure the rolls are tightly packed but not overcrowded.

6. Adding liquid: Pour enough water over the rolls to cover them, add the remaining tomato paste, and sprinkle another dash of thyme. If desired, add a few pieces of smoked meat for an intense flavor.

7. Boiling: Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about 2 hours. Check occasionally and add water if necessary to prevent burning.

8. Serving: Once the rolls are cooked, let them cool slightly before serving. They can be accompanied by sour cream and freshly chopped dill, as well as fluffy polenta for a truly delicious meal.

Chef's tip:

A delicious variation is to add a tablespoon of chopped dill to the meat mixture for an extra flavor boost. Additionally, if you prefer a more intense taste, you can use smoked meat instead of fresh meat.

Pairings and suggestions:

Stuffed cabbage rolls pair perfectly with a dry white wine or a plum brandy, which will complement the rich flavors of the dish. You can also serve them alongside a beet salad or pickles to add a contrast of textures and flavors.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use fresh cabbage? Although the traditional recipe uses pickled cabbage, you can use fresh cabbage, but you will need to blanch it to soften it.
- How can I store the rolls? The rolls can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or can be frozen for later consumption.
- Can I replace the rice with another ingredient? Yes, for a gluten-free version, you can use quinoa or bulgur.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

Stuffed cabbage rolls contain protein from the meat, carbohydrates from the rice, and fiber from the cabbage, making it a balanced meal. A serving of rolls has approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Pickled cabbage is rich in probiotics, which aid digestion and support intestinal health.

In conclusion, stuffed cabbage rolls are not just a tasty dish but also a way to create beautiful memories with loved ones. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a comforting meal, this recipe will surely bring a smile to your face. So, don’t hesitate and get cooking!