Stuffed cabbage rolls with meat

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Meat – A Traditional Recipe, Full of Flavor and Warmth

Stuffed cabbage rolls are not just a dish, but a true tradition, often associated with family meals, holidays, and special moments. Each household has its own variant, and today I will share my favorite recipe for stuffed cabbage rolls with meat, which combines the flavor of fresh ingredients with a simple and efficient technique. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from holidays to gatherings with friends.

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

Ingredients

- 1 kg of minced meat (ideally a combination of pork with a bit of fat to ensure juiciness)
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 1 can of tomatoes in puree (about 400 g)
- 100 g of rice (washed and drained)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- A handful of fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or your preference)
- Grape leaves (fresh or pickled)
- 1 cup of tomato juice
- 1 cup of borscht (or water, as preferred)

Step by Step Guide

1. Preparing the filling
In a large bowl, add the minced meat, chopped onion, lightly sautéed tomatoes (to concentrate their flavor), cleaned and drained rice, salt, pepper, thyme, and herbs. Mix well with your hands, ensuring that all ingredients are evenly distributed. It is essential to taste the filling; you can adjust the spices according to your preferences. A little secret: adding a pinch of sugar helps neutralize the acidity of the tomatoes.

2. Letting the filling rest
After mixing the ingredients well, let the composition rest for 10-15 minutes. This step allows the flavors to combine and become more intense.

3. Preparing the grape leaves
If you are using fresh leaves, blanch them for a few minutes in boiling water to make them more pliable. If you have pickled leaves, soak them in cold water for 10-20 minutes to reduce the saltiness. In the case of frozen leaves, let them thaw completely before use.

4. Forming the stuffed cabbage rolls
On each grape leaf, place a tablespoon of filling and roll tightly, making sure to fold the edges to prevent the filling from escaping. Place the cabbage rolls in a baking dish, on a layer of leaves to prevent sticking.

5. Adding the liquid
After placing all the cabbage rolls, pour the tomato juice and borscht (or water) over them. This will keep the rolls moist and flavorful during cooking.

6. Baking
Preheat the oven to 150°C and let the cabbage rolls cook slowly for nearly 2 hours. This slow process will intensify the flavors and make the meat extremely tender.

7. Serving
The cabbage rolls are served warm, usually with sour cream and polenta, but you can also experiment with a fresh salad for a refreshing contrast. Arrange them nicely on a plate and add a spoonful of sour cream on top for an extra burst of flavor.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the meat: Use a combination of fatty meat (like pork belly) to achieve juicy cabbage rolls. Avoid using only lean meat, as the rolls will become dry.
- The rice: Don’t overdo it with the amount of rice. Too much rice can make the rolls tough. The rice serves to bind the composition, so 100 g is sufficient.
- Vegetarian option: You can adapt the recipe for a vegetarian version by using chopped mushrooms and vegetables for the filling, or even soy flour.

Nutritional Benefits

Stuffed cabbage rolls are an excellent source of protein due to the meat and contain fiber from the rice and vegetables. Tomatoes bring valuable antioxidants, especially lycopene, which has beneficial effects on heart health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken meat?
Of course! Chicken meat is a leaner alternative, but it may require a bit more moisture to achieve the same juiciness.

2. How can I store the cabbage rolls?
Cabbage rolls can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze them to enjoy later.

3. What other side dishes go well with cabbage rolls?
Besides sour cream and polenta, you can also serve them with a cabbage salad or pickles.

A Personal Note

This stuffed cabbage roll recipe has been passed down in my family from generation to generation. I fondly remember the moments spent with my grandmother, who would tell me about each ingredient and the importance of cooking with love. Every portion of cabbage rolls you prepare is not just a meal but also a story, a memory, and a moment of joy. So, when you start cooking, remember to put a piece of your heart into each roll!

I hope you enjoy this stuffed cabbage roll recipe and create your own beautiful memories with your loved ones! Bon appétit!