Cabbage rolls
Cabbage Rolls - a dish that brings smiles to the faces of loved ones and undoubtedly enjoys the appreciation of all. This traditional recipe, loved around the world, will turn any meal into a true celebration. Cooking cabbage rolls can become a pleasant activity and an opportunity to spend time with loved ones, so get ready to embark on a culinary journey full of flavors and tradition.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Total time: 3 hours
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients:
- 1 kg minced meat (a combination of beef, turkey, and pork for perfect texture)
- 150 g rice (preferably long-grain rice for better consistency)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 large carrot
- ½ bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 1 sprig of thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Pickled cabbage leaves (enough to wrap the meat)
- 150 ml tomato juice (preferably natural, without additives)
Preparation:
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onions and grating the carrot. These vegetables will add sweetness and flavor to the filling. Also chop the fresh parsley and dill to include in the filling.
2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot, sautéing until golden and soft (about 5-7 minutes). Add the rice and stir to coat it with the oil and flavors in the pan. After a minute, add 75 ml of the tomato juice and let the mixture cool.
3. Mixing the filling: In a large bowl, combine the minced meat with the cooled rice and vegetable mixture. Add the parsley, dill, season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition. Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
4. Preparing the cabbage leaves: If using pickled cabbage leaves, make sure they are desalted and well washed to remove excess salt. Cut off the tough edges of the leaves to make them easier to roll. Each leaf should be about the size of a palm.
5. Forming the cabbage rolls: Take a cabbage leaf and place a portion of the meat filling (about 1-2 tablespoons, depending on the size of the leaf). Fold the edges of the leaf over the filling and roll tightly. Ensure the cabbage rolls are well sealed to prevent them from unrolling during cooking.
6. Arranging the cabbage rolls in the pot: In a large pot, place a layer of chopped cabbage at the bottom. This will prevent the cabbage rolls from sticking. Arrange the cabbage rolls in the pot, side by side, and add a sprig of thyme for extra flavor. Pour enough water to cover the cabbage rolls, then add the remaining tomato juice and 1 teaspoon of sugar to balance the taste.
7. Cooking the cabbage rolls: Place the pot over high heat and bring to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer on low for about 2 hours. Check occasionally and add water if necessary.
8. Final browning: After two hours, place the cabbage rolls in the oven at 180°C for another 20 minutes. This step will give them a delicious crust and a unique flavor.
Serving: The cabbage rolls are served hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top and possibly a slice of fresh bread. You can pair them with a cabbage salad or pickles for a contrast of textures and flavors.
Helpful tip: If you have time, it is recommended to prepare the cabbage rolls a day in advance. The flavor becomes even more intense and delicious after sitting in the fridge overnight.
Variations: Depending on personal preferences, you can add a few slices of fried bacon to the filling for extra flavor or use quinoa instead of rice for a healthier option.
Nutritional benefits: These cabbage rolls are rich in protein due to the meat, and the pickled cabbage provides an important supply of vitamins and probiotics, beneficial for digestion. Additionally, the carrot and greens add a variety of essential nutrients.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh cabbage? Yes, but you will need to blanch it to soften it before using.
2. How can I store the cabbage rolls? They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for later consumption.
3. Can I add other ingredients to the filling? Absolutely! Everyone can customize the recipe according to their own tastes by adding mushrooms or brown rice.
We hope this cabbage roll recipe becomes a quick favorite in your kitchen! Cooking is an art, and cabbage rolls are a masterpiece full of love and tradition. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 1 kg minced meat (mix of beef, turkey, pork), 150 g rice, 2 onions, 1 carrot, 1/2 parsley, dill, green parsley, thyme, salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon sugar, paprika, pickled cabbage leaves, 150 ml tomato juice.
