Stuffed cabbage rolls with beef and pork with sage

Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Pork with Sage - A Traditional Delicacy

Cabbage rolls are a symbol of hospitality, bringing family and friends together at tables filled with flavors and stories. This recipe for cabbage rolls with beef and pork, flavored with sage, is one of those recipes that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a sense of warmth and comfort to your home.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 2-3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours
Number of Servings: 8-10

Ingredients

- 1 kg minced beef and pork (an ideal mix for a juicy texture)
- 2 medium cabbages (choose firm and crunchy ones)
- 1 cup of rice (preferably long-grain rice that holds its shape)
- 1 cup of white wine (choose a quality wine that is also pleasant to drink)
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (about 400 g)
- 100 g smoked bacon (adds a smoky flavor to the rolls)
- 1 carrot (grated, for sweetness and texture)
- 1 onion (finely chopped, for a base flavor)
- 1 bunch of dill (finely chopped, for freshness)
- 1-2 bay leaves (for added flavor)
- 1-2 hot pepper leaves (optional, for a touch of spiciness)
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
- Pepper to taste
- Vegeta (or other preferred seasoning, to enhance the flavors)
- A little thyme (for an earthy taste)
- Sage (the aromatic herb that will give a distinct note to the rolls)
- Cinnamon (a pinch, for a surprising aroma)

Brief History

Cabbage rolls have a rich and varied history, influenced by multiple cultures. Over time, they have been adapted based on available ingredients and local traditions. Today, cabbage rolls are not only a tasty dish but also an integral part of celebrations and family gatherings.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Cabbage:
- If the cabbage is very salty, soak it in cold water for about 4 hours. This step is essential to get cabbage that is not too salty.
- Carefully peel each cabbage leaf and cut the stem to obtain leaves that are easy to roll.

2. Preparing the Filling:
- In a pan, add olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes transparent.
- Add the grated carrot and rice, mixing well. Sauté for a few minutes.
- Add pepper and hot pepper leaves, then sprinkle with white wine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the minced meat with the rice and vegetable mixture, chopped dill, basil, thyme, sage, pepper, and vegeta. Mix well with your hands to integrate the flavors.

3. Forming the Cabbage Rolls:
- Take a cabbage leaf and place a tablespoon of the meat filling on it. Roll the leaf to form a cabbage roll, making sure to fold the edges to keep the filling inside.
- In a pot, add olive oil and chop some of the remaining cabbage to cover the bottom. Place the cabbage rolls in layers, then add a bit of chopped cabbage on top.

4. Cooking the Cabbage Rolls:
- Add slices of bacon, bay leaves, diced tomatoes, and a dash of cinnamon to the sauce formed.
- Fill with water, cover with aluminum foil, and bake at 180 degrees Celsius for 2-3 hours. Check periodically and add water if necessary.

5. Serving:
- Cabbage rolls are delicious served with warm polenta and sour cream. This combination will make every meal a celebration!

Practical Tips

- Meat Variants: You can experiment with different types of meat, such as lamb or turkey, for a unique taste.
- Extra Sauce: If you like sauce, you can add an extra cup of white wine and diced tomatoes.
- Spicy: Adjust the amount of hot peppers according to your preferences for an extra kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use pickled cabbage? Yes, pickled cabbage can be an excellent choice, but make sure to rinse it well to reduce the salt.
- Can cabbage rolls be frozen? Yes, cabbage rolls can be frozen. Make sure to let them cool completely before storing them in airtight containers.
- What side dish pairs best? Polenta is a classic choice, but mashed potatoes or fresh bread are also delicious alongside cabbage rolls.

Nutritional Information

This cabbage roll recipe is rich in protein due to the meat mixture, offering approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the amount of meat and filling used. It provides a good intake of fiber from cabbage and rice, contributing to a balanced diet.

Final Notes

Cabbage rolls with beef and pork with sage are more than just a dish; they represent a tradition, a way to gather around the table and create unforgettable memories. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or a family dinner, these cabbage rolls will bring warmth and joy in every bite. Enjoy your meal!