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Ukrainian cabbage rolls

Ukrainian Cabbage Rolls

Experience the comforting warmth of traditional Ukrainian cabbage rolls, featuring a savory blend of ground pork and beef, rice, and aromatic spices wrapped in tender cabbage leaves, all simmered in a delicate tomato and dill sauce.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 6 Persons
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: European
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large green cabbage About 3.5 lbs.
  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped About 1 cup.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups tomato sauce Canned or homemade.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped Or 1 teaspoon dried dill.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1½ teaspoons salt, divided
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 cups water or broth To keep moist but avoid washing off the sauce.
  • To taste sour cream For serving (optional).

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Large baking dish
  • Wooden spoon
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Aluminum foil or lid

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Core the cabbage and carefully peel off about 12 large outer leaves. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until pliable but still firm. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. In a small pot, rinse rice and cook it in 2 cups of water over medium heat until just tender but not mushy (about 15 minutes). Drain any excess water and let cool slightly.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic, paprika, half teaspoon salt, and pepper; cook for 1 more minute.
  4. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, ground beef, cooked rice, sautéed onions and garlic mixture. Mix thoroughly.
  5. Lay each cabbage leaf flat and trim the thick vein at the base if needed. Place about 3 tablespoons of filling near the stem end, fold the sides over the filling, then roll up tightly.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish or Dutch oven. Arrange cabbage rolls seam side down in the dish snugly. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the rolls. Add chopped dill, bay leaves, and sprinkle remaining salt over. Pour water or broth around the edges to keep moist but avoid washing off the sauce.
  7. Cover dish tightly with foil or lid. Bake in the oven for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes until cabbage is tender and filling is cooked through.
  8. Remove bay leaves. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Notes

  • For easier rolling, use smaller leaves closer to the outer side of the cabbage.
  • If rice cooks faster than the meat, be sure to let filling cool before assembling to keep the mixture firm.
  • Leftovers taste great reheated the next day as flavors deepen.
  • To make vegetarian rolls, substitute mushrooms and cooked barley for meat.
  • Serve with rye bread and a simple cucumber salad for an authentic Ukrainian meal experience.