Stuffed cabbage rolls with pork and turkey

Delicious stuffed cabbage rolls with pork and turkey

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

A traditional recipe for stuffed cabbage rolls is more than just a meal; it is a story, a connection with loved ones, and a tradition that enriches our souls. This wonderful recipe comes from a priest's wife, known for her exceptional culinary skills. Stuffed cabbage rolls are perfect for holidays, but also for a festive family meal. With every bite, you are sure to impress your guests!

Ingredients:
- 500 g pork (choose meat with moderate fat content for juiciness)
- 300 g turkey (breast, for a finer texture)
- 200 g beef (for a rich flavor)
- 350 g rice (choose long-grain rice to prevent sticking)
- 4 large onions (for a sweet and aromatic taste)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill (for an extra burst of flavor)
- 1 large pickled cabbage (make sure it is well-fermented)
- 100 ml oil (for sautéing the onion)
- salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon of vegeta (for a more intense flavor)
- 1 tablespoon of sweet paprika (for color and flavor)
- 1 tablespoon of honey (for a sweet and balanced note)
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste (for vibrant color)
- smoked meat (I used homemade ham, but you can also use sausages or bacon)
- bay leaves (classic flavor)
- a sprig of thyme (optional, but recommended)

Preparation:
1. Start by peeling the onions and chopping them finely. I suggest using a sharp knife to make chopping easier. The onion will add a flavorful base to your recipe.

2. In a heated skillet, add the oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it turns golden. This step is crucial as it will give a sweet taste to your cabbage rolls.

3. Once the onion has turned golden, add the pepper and paprika, leaving everything on the heat for another minute. The aroma will be absolutely irresistible!

4. In a large bowl, combine all the types of finely chopped meat, well-washed rice, sautéed onion, salt, vegeta, chopped dill, finely chopped smoked meat, tomato paste, and honey. Mix everything well so that the ingredients are perfectly blended. It is important to use clean hands to feel the texture of the mixture.

5. Let the mixture rest while we prepare the cabbage leaves. Carefully detach the pickled cabbage leaves, ensuring they are whole. If the leaves are too salty, you can rinse them under cold running water.

6. Now it's time to wrap the cabbage rolls. Place a tablespoon of the meat mixture on each cabbage leaf and roll it up gently, making sure to fold the edges to seal them. This is the fun part!

7. In a large pot, place the remaining chopped cabbage, bay leaves, and the sprig of thyme. Arrange the cabbage rolls in a circle, leaving a gap in the middle where you can place the chopped cabbage. This will help cook the rolls evenly.

8. Add warm water until the cabbage rolls are covered. Cover the pot and turn the heat to low. Let them simmer for about 2 hours or until the cabbage is soft and the filling is cooked. Don’t forget to check periodically, adding water if necessary.

9. When the cabbage rolls are done, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This waiting moment will intensify the flavors.

10. Serve the cabbage rolls with sour cream and fresh or pickled hot peppers for a delicious contrast. You can also add a slice of fresh bread, which will perfectly complete the meal.

Practical tips:
- If you don’t like smoked meat in the filling, you can add it between the rolls when you put them to cook.
- You can experiment with different types of meat, such as lamb or fattier beef.
- For a spicy note, you can add chopped hot peppers to the meat mixture.
- Cabbage rolls can also be made with fresh cabbage, but the fermentation process of pickled cabbage gives them an authentic taste.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the meat and contains carbohydrates from rice. Cabbage, as a fermented vegetable, is full of probiotics that aid digestion.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I freeze the cabbage rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the cabbage rolls before cooking them. Make sure to let them cool before placing them in airtight containers.

2. How can I make the cabbage rolls healthier?
You can replace the rice with quinoa for a version richer in protein and fiber. You can also use lean meat or less oil.

3. What other recipes can be combined with cabbage rolls?
Cabbage rolls can be served alongside polenta, a fresh cabbage salad, or for a complete meal, a tripe soup.

Cabbage rolls are a true symbol of hospitality and culinary traditions. Whether you prepare them for a special celebration or simply to share beautiful moments with loved ones, this recipe will help you create unforgettable memories. Enjoy your meal!