Stuffed cabbage rolls with sour cabbage and smoked meat

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Smoked Meat and Polenta - A Traditional Delicacy

Who doesn't love stuffed cabbage rolls? This dish combines tradition and comfort, bringing rich flavors and warmth to our table, reminiscent of family meals. Stuffed cabbage rolls with smoked meat are undoubtedly a delight that will tantalize your taste buds. Let's discover together how to prepare these delicious rolls and serve them with warm polenta and hot peppers for a complete culinary experience.

Total Time: 4 hours and 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 4 hours
Number of Servings: 6

Necessary Ingredients:
- 1.3 kg minced pork
- 600 g smoked ribs
- 2 pickled cabbages (of suitable size)
- 350 ml tomato juice
- 3 large onions
- 1/2 cup rice
- 1 bay leaf
- Thyme (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 50 ml oil

The History of Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Stuffed cabbage rolls have a long history, being a beloved dish in many cultures. Each region has its own variation, but the essence remains the same: savory fillings of meat and rice, wrapped in cabbage leaves. This recipe is a perfect combination of simple ingredients that together create a memorable culinary experience.

Preparing the Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

1. Preparing the Cabbage:
Start by washing the cabbages well. Place them in cold water and let them soak for about 4 hours. This step is essential to obtain tender leaves that are easy to roll.

2. Sautéing the Onion and Rice:
Peel and finely chop the onion. Heat the oil in a pan, then add the chopped onion. Sauté over medium heat until it becomes translucent, then add the washed rice. Cook everything for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Let it cool.

3. The Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the minced pork with the onion and rice mixture. Season with thyme, salt, pepper, and two tablespoons of tomato juice. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.

4. Preparing the Cabbage Leaves:
Unfold the cabbage leaves and cut off the thick stems and ribs to make rolling easier. Choose the most beautiful leaves to wrap the filling.

5. Forming the Rolls:
Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each cabbage leaf. Roll the leaf around the filling, tucking in the ends to seal the roll. Continue until you finish the filling.

6. Preparing the Pot:
In a pot, place finely chopped cabbage on the bottom, then add half of the smoked meat, the bay leaf, thyme, and a little pepper. Layer the rolls, sprinkling thyme and pepper between them, then add the remaining smoked meat and cabbage leaves.

7. Cooking the Rolls:
Pour water over the rolls until they are completely covered. Preheat the oven to low heat and place the pot inside. Let them cook for about 4 hours. Check occasionally, adding hot water if necessary.

8. Finalizing the Dish:
With 30 minutes before turning off the oven, remove the cabbage leaves from the top and add the remaining tomato juice. This step will enhance the flavor of the rolls and give them an appetizing appearance.

Serving
Stuffed cabbage rolls are delicious served hot, alongside a portion of fluffy polenta and hot peppers for an extra kick. Serve them with a dollop of sour cream for a creamy texture that perfectly complements this dish.

Practical Tips:
- Choose meat with a higher fat content for juicier rolls.
- You can add other spices, such as sweet paprika or garlic, to customize the flavor.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can replace the pork with chicken or turkey.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use fresh cabbage instead of pickled cabbage? Of course! Fresh cabbage should be boiled a little to become tender before using it.
- How can I keep the rolls for longer? The rolls keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days, and freezing is an excellent option for enjoying them later.
- What drinks pair well with stuffed cabbage rolls? A dry red wine or a pale lager are excellent choices to complement the rich flavors of the rolls.

Nutritional Benefits:
Stuffed cabbage rolls are an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, thanks to the healthy ingredients. Cabbage is rich in fiber and antioxidants, while pork provides essential nutrients for a balanced diet.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to start cooking! Enjoy your meal!