Stuffed cabbage rolls with polenta

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Mămăligă – A Lenten Delicacy

When it comes to traditional dishes, stuffed cabbage rolls with mămăligă are undoubtedly one of the most beloved and appreciated meals. This recipe is not only delicious but also very easy to prepare, making it perfect for fasting days or for moments when we want to enjoy a healthy and nourishing meal. The stuffed cabbage rolls combine the rich flavors of vegetables with the fine texture of mămăligă, creating a comforting and flavorful dish.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 3 cups of mămăligă
- 1 cup of rice
- 2 large onions
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 carrots
- 1 bell pepper
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Thyme (optional)
- Basil (optional)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Pickled cabbage leaves (a few, to wrap the rolls)

Preparation of the stuffed cabbage rolls:

1. Preparing the cabbage leaves: Start by placing the pickled cabbage leaves in a basin of cold water. Let them soak for 10-15 minutes. This step will help remove excess salt and make the leaves more pliable for wrapping the rolls.

2. Preparing the filling: In a pan, add the oil and sauté the finely chopped onions until golden. This step is essential, as caramelized onions will add natural sweetness to your filling.

3. Adding the vegetables: Chop the carrots and bell pepper into small cubes, then add them to the pan with the onions. Continue to sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This ingredient will bring additional flavor and a pleasant texture to the rolls.

4. Incorporating the mămăligă and rice: In a large bowl, combine the mămăligă and rice with the sautéed vegetables, adding the tomato paste as well. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. This mixture will be the delicious base for the rolls.

5. Seasoning: Add salt, pepper, thyme, and basil to taste. You can experiment with the spices to find the combination you like best. It’s important to taste the filling to ensure the flavors are balanced.

6. Forming the rolls: Take a cabbage leaf and place a tablespoon of the mămăligă mixture at the base of the leaf. Fold the side edges and then roll the leaf to form a roll. Continue to repeat this process until you have used up the entire filling.

7. Cooking the rolls: Place the rolls in a large pot, alternating layers of rolls with a few cabbage leaves at the bottom of the pot to prevent sticking. Add enough water to cover the rolls and let them simmer on low heat for about 1 hour. You can add more water if necessary, ensuring the rolls do not dry out.

8. Serving: Once the rolls are cooked, you can serve them warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. They pair perfectly with a serving of warm polenta or a fresh cabbage salad.

Practical tips:
- Mămăligă is a good source of carbohydrates and can be found in natural food stores. You can choose whole grain mămăligă for added nutrients.
- Vegetables: Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best flavor. Sweet carrots and crunchy bell peppers will make a difference.
- Variations: You can also add other ingredients to the filling, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or even soy for a vegetarian and healthy option.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use fresh cabbage instead of pickled cabbage? Yes, but you will need to blanch it a bit to soften it and make it easier to handle.
- How can I make the rolls spicier? Add hot peppers or paprika to the mămăligă mixture for an extra kick.

Nutritional benefits:
Stuffed cabbage rolls with mămăligă are an excellent choice for a balanced diet. Mămăligă is rich in protein and fiber, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and antioxidants. This recipe is low in calories, making it suitable for those looking to maintain or lose weight.

Serving suggestions:
These rolls are delicious alongside a plant-based sour cream or a garlic yogurt sauce. You can accompany the meal with a glass of white wine or fresh lemonade.

In conclusion, stuffed cabbage rolls with mămăligă are an excellent choice for a Lenten meal, full of flavor and nutrients. This simple and quick recipe will help you bring joy to the plates of your loved ones, offering them an unforgettable culinary experience. So don’t wait any longer! Put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and let’s cook together!