Cabbage rolls for fasting

Post cabbage rolls are a beloved traditional dish that evokes memories of family meals and moments spent with loved ones. From the enticing scent of fresh cabbage to the rich aroma of sautéed vegetables, each bite is a warm memory. This recipe for post cabbage rolls will not only delight you but also bring a touch of childhood nostalgia. Let's discover together how to prepare them!

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

Ingredients
- 650 g white onion (peeled)
- 400 g carrot (peeled)
- 1 kg fresh cabbage
- 400 g rice
- 100 g semolina
- 100-150 ml oil (optional)
- 1 ½ teaspoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Leaves from 2-3 pickled cabbages, marjoram (for wrapping)

Ingredients for sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 150 ml hot water

Step by step for the best post cabbage rolls

1. Preparing the vegetables:
Start by chopping the onion, carrot, and cabbage. You can use either a knife or a food processor, depending on your preference. Manual chopping can add a personal touch and help you relax.

2. Sautéing the vegetables:
Heat the oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the carrot and bay leaf. Continue cooking the vegetables until the carrot softens, about 10 minutes. Add the tomato paste, mix well and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, then turn off the heat.

3. Preparing the filling for the cabbage rolls:
In a large bowl, rub the chopped cabbage with salt. Let it sit for a few minutes to release its juices, then squeeze it gently. Add the cabbage to the pot with the sautéed vegetables, along with the rice, semolina, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix the filling well, ensuring all ingredients are well integrated.

4. Forming the cabbage rolls:
Take a pickled cabbage leaf and remove the stem. Place the leaf on your palm and put a tablespoon of the vegetable and rice mixture on the inner edge of the leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling to cover it, then roll the leaf towards the tip, forming a cylinder. Gently press the ends to seal the roll.

5. Cooking the cabbage rolls:
In a large pot, add a splash of oil and place a plate at the bottom of the pot. Arrange the cabbage rolls in a single layer, being careful not to leave too much space between them. Add warm water until the rolls are covered. Place a few cabbage leaves on top and put on the lid. Boil on medium heat for 2 hours, checking occasionally if the cabbage leaves are cooked.

6. Finalizing the sauce:
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, mix the 2 tablespoons of tomato paste with 150 ml of hot water and pour the sauce over the cabbage rolls. This will add a delicious flavor and a beautiful color to the dish.

Serving and suggestions
Post cabbage rolls are delicious when served warm, alongside soy sour cream or a spicy sauce. A salad of pickles or a fresh green salad will perfectly complement this dish. Personally, I love serving them with a bottle of fresh must or a glass of white wine to enhance the flavors of the rolls.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I make the cabbage rolls without oil?
Absolutely! If you want a healthier version, you can skip the oil and rely on the juices from the vegetables to cook them.

2. What other ingredients can I add to the filling?
You can experiment with various herbs or even finely chopped mushrooms to add extra flavor.

3. How well do the cabbage rolls keep?
Cabbage rolls keep very well in the refrigerator, sealed tightly, for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze them to enjoy later.

Nutritional benefits
These cabbage rolls are an excellent source of fiber due to the cabbage and vegetables used. The rice and semolina provide complex carbohydrates, offering long-lasting energy. Additionally, the vegetables are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making this dish a healthy choice.

Conclusion
Preparing post cabbage rolls can be a satisfying and joyful activity, especially when you think of the meals spent with family. Whether you make them for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this recipe will provide you with a tasty and flavorful result. So, put on your apron and let’s cook together the best post cabbage rolls!