Stuffed cabbage rolls with chicken meat

Cabbage Rolls with Chicken Thigh: A Traditional Recipe with a Modern Twist

Cabbage rolls are a symbol of culinary joy, a dish that brings the family together around the table and evokes beautiful moments spent with loved ones. In this recipe, we will use chicken thigh, making the cabbage rolls lighter and healthier, perfect for days when we want to indulge without feeling too heavy. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 3 hours
Total time: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients:
- 1 kg boneless chicken thighs
- 250 g rice
- 3 eggs
- 3 carrots
- 4 pieces of leeks
- 3 tablespoons flour
- A bunch of dill
- A bunch of parsley
- 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 300 g smoked bacon (or another type of smoked meat)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Thyme (to taste)
- 2 pickled cabbages
- A hot pepper (optional)
- Sour cream (for serving)

A Bit of History
Cabbage rolls have a long history, being prepared in various forms around the world. The use of chicken meat is a modern adaptation that offers a lighter taste, while the addition of leeks and carrots adds a touch of sweetness and freshness. Whether served with polenta, sour cream, or hot pepper, cabbage rolls are a delicacy that should not be missing from holiday menus or everyday meals.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by washing the chicken thighs well. Then, cut them into smaller pieces and pass them through a meat grinder. This will ensure a fine and homogeneous texture for the filling.

2. The Rice
Wash the rice in several waters, then let it soak for about 15-20 minutes. This step is essential for achieving soft and well-bound cabbage rolls.

3. Preparing the Leeks
Clean the leeks and wash them well. Cut them into rounds, then blanch them in boiling salted water for 5 minutes. Drain well, then add them to the minced chicken.

4. The Vegetables
Peel the carrots and grate them finely. Add them to the bowl with the minced meat and leeks. These vegetables will add a sweet taste and pleasant aroma.

5. Mixing the Filling
Add the washed and finely chopped dill and parsley, the 3 beaten eggs, 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste, 3 tablespoons of flour, salt and pepper to taste. Finally, add the drained rice. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.

6. Preparing the Cabbage
Use pickled cabbages, which will give an authentic taste to the rolls. Chop some of the cabbages finely and place them at the bottom of a large pot to prevent the rolls from sticking.

7. Forming the Rolls
Take a cabbage leaf and place a tablespoon of the meat mixture in the center. Wrap the leaf to obtain well-wrapped rolls. Continue until you finish all the filling.

8. The Bacon Layer
Cut the bacon into suitable pieces and place them among the cabbage rolls. This will add a smoky and savory flavor.

9. Cooking the Rolls
Fill the pot with water, add diluted tomato paste, and sprinkle with thyme. Let it simmer over medium heat for about 3 hours. Check from time to time, adding water if necessary.

10. Serving
The cabbage rolls are served hot, alongside polenta, sour cream, and, if you like, hot pepper. This combination will turn every meal into an unforgettable feast.

Useful Tips
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with mushrooms or chopped vegetables.
- Experimenting with spices can add extra flavor. Try adding peppercorns or bay leaves during cooking.
- Cabbage rolls can be frozen after cooking, making them ideal for meal prep. Just let them cool completely before placing them in airtight containers.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use pork instead of chicken?
Of course! Using pork will give a more intense flavor, but the rolls will be heavier.

2. How can I keep the rolls longer?
Store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container or freeze them in individual portions for easy access.

3. Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
Yes, you can experiment with zucchini or red bell pepper, and these will add a different flavor.

4. What drinks pair well with cabbage rolls?
A dry white wine or a light lager pairs perfectly with cabbage rolls, but a cold lemonade can be an excellent choice for a summer meal.

Nutritional Details
Cabbage rolls with chicken thigh offer a lower fat content compared to traditional ones made with pork. They are rich in protein due to the chicken, and the vegetables add essential fiber and vitamins.

In conclusion, cabbage rolls with chicken thigh are a delicious and healthy choice, perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try them and personalize them to your taste. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 1 kg boneless chicken thighs, 250g rice, 3 eggs, 3 carrots, 4 pieces of leek, 3 tablespoons of flour, a bunch of dill and a bunch of parsley, tomato paste, 300g bacon, salt and pepper, thyme, 2 pickled cabbages, a hot pepper and sour cream to taste.

 Tags:  cabbage rolls