Stuffed cabbage rolls by Ramona

Cabbage Rolls in Sweet Cabbage by Ramona - a traditional delight

Cabbage rolls are a savory dish, full of tradition and love, that brings the family together at the table and offers unforgettable moments. The recipe we will explore today bears the personal touch of Ramona, a passionate cook who has turned every meal into a celebration. Start this culinary journey and discover how to prepare delicious cabbage rolls in sweet cabbage, a recipe that will quickly become your favorite.

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

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 medium cabbages
- 200 g minced bacon
- 500 g minced pork
- 100 g sausages (optional)
- 2 grated carrots
- 1 small chopped red bell pepper
- 2 chopped onions
- 1 glass of rice (about 200 g)
- Spices for cabbage rolls: dill, thyme, pepper, vegeta, sweet paprika, ground bay leaves
- 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- Oil for sautéing
- Water, coarse salt, and vinegar for blanching the cabbage

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the cabbage: In a large pot, add water, coarse salt, and vinegar, then bring the cabbages to a boil. This process will help the leaves become more flexible and easy to roll. Let them boil for 10-15 minutes, then remove and let cool.

2. The filling: In a large skillet, add a few tablespoons of oil and heat it. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden. Then, add the grated carrots and red bell pepper. Sauté the mixture for a few minutes until the vegetables are soft.

3. Adding the meat: Add the minced pork and bacon to the skillet, mixing well. Cook until the meat changes color and is evenly cooked. This step is crucial as the bacon's flavor will add an extra layer of taste to the filling.

4. Including the rice: Add the pre-washed rice and mix well. Season with dill, thyme, pepper, vegeta, and sweet paprika, then add the tomato paste. Mix everything to combine. Let the filling cool slightly.

5. Filling the cabbage leaves: Take a cabbage leaf and place a tablespoon of filling in the center. Carefully roll it up, folding the edges to seal the cabbage roll. Repeat this process until the filling is finished.

6. Assembling in the pot: In a large pot, place a layer of chopped cabbage at the bottom, adding some extra spices. Place a first layer of cabbage rolls, followed by a few slices of sausage (if using), then another layer of chopped cabbage. Repeat until all ingredients are used. Cover the rolls with a layer of cabbage and add enough water to cover them completely.

7. Boiling: Cover the pot with a lid and let the cabbage rolls simmer on low heat for about 2 hours. If desired, you can place a deep plate on top of the rolls to keep them pressed. This trick will ensure that the rolls cook evenly and do not fall apart.

8. Serving: Once the cabbage rolls are ready, let them cool slightly. Serve them hot, with sour cream and polenta, for a perfect culinary experience. You can also add fresh parsley for an extra touch of flavor.

Useful tips:
- If you want a lighter version, you can use turkey or chicken.
- Experiment with different spices to find your favorite combination.
- Cabbage rolls can also be prepared in advance, and their flavor becomes even better the next day after they have cooled and infused well.
- You can freeze leftover cabbage rolls for a quick meal on busy days.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use pickled cabbage instead of sweet cabbage?
Of course! Pickled cabbage will provide a different but fantastic taste. Make sure to rinse it well to reduce the salt.

2. How can I make the cabbage rolls spicier?
Add hot peppers or spicy seasonings to the filling for a more intense flavor.

3. Can I replace the rice with another ingredient?
Yes, you can use quinoa or bulgur for a healthier option.

In conclusion, Ramona's cabbage rolls in sweet cabbage are not just a delicious dish but also an explosion of tradition and love. They bring people together and create beautiful memories around the table. Experiment with this recipe and turn every meal into a true celebration. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 2 medium cabbages, vinegar, coarse salt, 200 g minced bacon, 500 g minced pork meat, 100 g optional sausage, 2 grated carrots, 1 small chopped red bell pepper, 2 chopped onions, 1 glass of rice. Spices for sarmale: dill, thyme, pepper, vegeta, sweet paprika, bay leaves minced... Tomato paste, oil.