Cabbage rolls with garlic

Delicious recipe for cabbage rolls in sautéed cabbage with garlic

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Cabbage rolls, this traditional dish, have a rich and varied history, being found in different forms in many cultures. They often symbolize family unity and warmth, typically prepared for special occasions and holidays. Cabbage rolls in sautéed cabbage with garlic are a savory variant that combines the rich flavors of meat with the freshness of vegetables and a hint of seasoning.

Ingredients:
- 3 heads of sautéed cabbage
- 1 kg minced meat (mix of pork and beef)
- 100 g rice
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 200 g smoked bacon, sliced thin
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bunch of fresh dill, chopped
- 2-3 tablespoons of roasted pepper paste
- 200 ml homemade tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil for sautéing

Step by step:

1. Preparing the cabbage: Start by removing the outer leaves of the sautéed cabbage that may be wilted. Use a knife to remove the core, then place the cabbage in a pot of boiling water. Make sure to place the head with the core side up to make it easier to detach the leaves. Let the cabbage boil for a few minutes until the leaves become slightly elastic. Carefully detach the leaves from the core and place them on a plate.

2. Preparing the filling: In a large skillet, add a little oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes transparent. Add the minced meat and continue to stir until it changes color. It is important to use a mix of pork and beef for a richer flavor.

3. Seasoning: After the meat is cooked, add the rice, minced garlic, thyme, and dill. Cook the mixture for another 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper.

4. Filling the leaves: Take a cabbage leaf and place a tablespoon of the meat mixture in the center. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling and roll it tightly so it doesn't come apart during cooking. Repeat the process until you have used all the filling.

5. Assembling the cabbage rolls: In a large pot, place some of the chopped cabbage leaves and sprinkle a tablespoon of roasted pepper paste, a few slices of smoked bacon, and a pinch of thyme. Then layer the cabbage rolls, alternating with chopped cabbage and roasted pepper paste. It is important to have a layer of cabbage at the bottom of the pot to prevent sticking.

6. Boiling: Add enough water to cover all the cabbage rolls, then put on the lid and let it boil over medium heat for about an hour. After an hour, add the tomato sauce and let it boil for another 15-20 minutes.

7. Serving: Cabbage rolls are delicious served warm, with a spoonful of sour cream on top and, if desired, with a slice of fresh bread. For an extra flavor, you can also add some hot peppers on the side.

Useful tips:
- Meat varieties: You can use any combination of minced meat, from pork, beef to chicken, depending on your preferences.
- The rice: Make sure the rice is well washed to remove the starch, which will help achieve a less sticky filling.
- Spices: You can experiment with different spices, such as paprika or red pepper, to add a distinct flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
- How can I make the cabbage rolls spicier? You can add chopped hot peppers to the filling or in the tomato sauce.
- Can I freeze the cabbage rolls? Yes, cabbage rolls can be successfully frozen. Make sure to let them cool completely before placing them in airtight containers.
- What can I serve with cabbage rolls? Cabbage rolls go well with a cabbage salad, pickles, or a potato dish.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of cabbage rolls contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. This dish is rich in protein (from the meat and rice), vitamins (from the cabbage and greens), and minerals. Cabbage is known for its antioxidant properties and for aiding digestion.

Possible variations:
- Cabbage rolls with brown rice: Using brown rice instead of white rice adds extra fiber and nutrients.
- Vegetarian cabbage rolls: You can replace the meat with chopped mushrooms and vegetables for a lighter yet equally tasty version.

Cabbage rolls in sautéed cabbage with garlic are a dish that combines tradition with intense flavors, bringing a touch of warmth to any meal. I encourage you to try them and adapt them to your taste, to transform each serving into a unique culinary experience. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 3 curly cabbage heads, 1 kg minced meat (pork + beef), 100 g rice, 1 onion, 5 garlic cloves, 200 g smoked bacon, thyme, green dill, pepper paste, 200 ml homemade tomato sauce, salt, pepper.