Prepare yourself for a delightful culinary journey as we recreate a cherished family recipe: Stuffed Cabbage, just like your mother used to make! This traditional dish, originating from the heart of European kitchens, particularly Hungary, is a savory symphony of flavors bound to tantalize your taste buds. With a total preparation time of 2 hours and 30 minutes, including 2 hours of cooking time, this recipe promises a rewarding experience in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 lb ground beef 🥩
- 1/2 egg 🥚
- 1 cup cooked rice 🍚
- 1/2 garlic clove, minced 🧄
- 1-2 tsp salt 🧂
- 1 tsp sweet Hungarian paprika 🌶️
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste 🌱
- 1 head of cabbage 🥬
- 1 cup tomato puree 🍅
- 2 bay leaves 🍃
- Peppercorns 🫑
- Basil leaves 🌿
- 2 cups water 💧
- 1/2 cup milk 🥛
Instructions:
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Preparation: Begin by boiling about 2 cups of water in a large pot. While the water heats up, carefully wash the head of cabbage, ensuring it’s clean and ready for use.
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Blanching the Cabbage: Once the water reaches a boil, immerse the whole cabbage head into the pot for a few minutes. This blanching process softens the outer leaves, making them easier to peel. Don’t forget to save the water in a measuring cup for later use.
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Preparing the Cabbage Leaves: Remove the cabbage from the pot and place it upside down on a cutting board. Trim off a good portion of the stem, then gently peel off the softened outer leaves one by one until you can no longer remove any more.
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Rolling the Stuffed Cabbage: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, cooked rice, minced garlic, salt, sweet Hungarian paprika, and freshly ground pepper. Mix well to form the filling. Take each cabbage leaf and place a portion of the filling at the center, then roll it up to encase the filling securely. Repeat this process for each leaf, creating delicious stuffed cabbage rolls.
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Layering and Seasoning: Once all the cabbage rolls are prepared, shred the remaining cabbage and place it at the bottom of the large pot. Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls on top of the shredded cabbage. Pour the tomato puree over the rolls and add the bay leaves, peppercorns, and basil leaves for an extra burst of flavor.
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Cooking: Pour the reserved water into the pot until the cabbage rolls are partially submerged. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and cooked through. Keep an eye on the liquid level during cooking, adding more water if necessary to prevent the rolls from drying out.
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Adjusting the Sauce: If you find that there’s too much liquid in the pot after cooking, carefully remove the cabbage rolls and set them aside. In a small saucepan, melt margarine over low heat, then add flour to make a roux. Once the roux turns golden yellow, remove it from the heat and stir in Hungarian sweet paprika for a flavorful sauce. This step also helps to thicken the sauce for a richer consistency.
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Serving: Plate the stuffed cabbage rolls and generously spoon the thickened sauce over them. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic dish, reminiscent of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones.
With each tender bite of these Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, you’ll savor the nostalgia of family gatherings and the warmth of cherished traditions. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your culinary repertoire. So gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary adventure that honors the timeless flavors of the past while creating new memories to cherish for years to come!
