Stuffed cabbage rolls combined with bacon

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Rice and Bacon - A Traditional Delicacy

If you are looking for a recipe that brings back memories of family meals and the warmth of home, you have come to the right place. Stuffed cabbage rolls with rice and bacon are not only a delicious dish but also a true culinary tradition passed down through generations. This recipe, rich in flavors and textures, will offer you an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Let's begin our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 3-4 hours
Total time: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

For Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Rice:
- 500 g ground pork (no beef)
- 1 cup of rice
- 2 medium onions
- 4-5 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Thyme and dill, to taste
- 1 egg (optional)
- Cabbage leaves (about 15-20 leaves)

For Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Bacon, Bulgur, and Mushrooms:
- 500 g champignon mushrooms
- 1 cup bulgur (or rice)
- Slightly smoked bacon (about 200 g)
- 2 eggs (optional)
- 4-5 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Thyme and dill, to taste
- Cabbage leaves (same as above)

For Cooking:
- A little oil to grease the pot
- Cabbage broth (or water, if you don't have)

Preparation of the Cabbage Rolls

1. Preparing the filling for the rice cabbage rolls:
- Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion. In a pan, add a little oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the washed and drained rice, mixing well to incorporate it with the onion. Let it sauté for a few minutes, then add salt, pepper, thyme, and dill. If desired, you can also add the egg to bind the mixture.
- After the ingredients are well mixed, add the tomato paste and mix again. Let the filling cool slightly.

2. Preparing the filling for the cabbage rolls with bacon, bulgur, and mushrooms:
- Wash the bulgur (or rice) very well in water, ensuring there are no skins left.
- Sauté the onion in the same way as in the previous filling, then add the finely chopped mushrooms and let them soften.
- In a large bowl, combine the bulgur, sautéed mushrooms, finely chopped bacon, salt, pepper, tomato paste, and eggs. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous composition.

3. Wrapping the cabbage rolls:
- Take each cabbage leaf and remove the central vein to make it more flexible.
- Place a tablespoon of the rice or bulgur filling in the center of the cabbage leaf, fold in the edges, and roll tightly. Arrange the cabbage rolls in a large pot, alternating between the rice rolls and the bacon ones.

4. Cooking the cabbage rolls:
- In the pot where you placed the cabbage rolls, add a little oil, thyme, and dill, then pour enough cabbage broth (or water) to cover the rolls.
- Add a tablespoon of tomato paste for extra flavor. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 3-4 hours. Here is the secret: low heat will allow the rolls to cook evenly and the flavors to blend.

Serving and Recommendations

The cabbage rolls are served hot, accompanied by a spoonful of sour cream, which will add a creamy and delicious note. You can pair them with a summer salad or warm polenta, which goes perfectly with this dish.

Practical Tips

- Using cabbage: If you have pickled cabbage leaves, they will give the rolls a more pronounced flavor.
- Storing the rolls: The rolls can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or frozen for later consumption.
- Variations: You can add various vegetables to the filling, such as carrots or bell peppers, to enrich the flavor.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

One serving (2 rolls) contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of meat and oil used. This dish is rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins, especially if you add vegetables to the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can use chicken or turkey for a leaner version.
- What else can I add to the filling? You can experiment with different spices or herbs, such as basil or oregano.
- How can I enhance the flavor of the rolls? A trick is to add a few peppercorns or bay leaves during cooking.

I hope this recipe for stuffed cabbage rolls with rice and bacon inspires you to prepare it at home, bringing tradition and authentic flavor to your kitchen. Enjoy your meal!