Traditional Ukrainian Pork and Rice Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Ukrainian Cabbage Rolls with Pork and Rice

Serves: 2, Difficulty: Expert

Preparation Time: 30 minutes, Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Summary

Discover the rich and comforting flavors of Ukraine through these exquisite cabbage rolls, known locally as “Holubtsi.” This dish embodies the heart of Eastern European cuisine, with tender cabbage leaves artfully filled with a seasoned blend of pork and rice, marrying tradition with a hint of modern flair. This culinary creation, a staple of Ukrainian cuisine, promises a heartwarming dinner that’s both indulgent and satisfying, fit for a true omnivore.

Ingredients

• 4 large cabbage leaves
• 200 grams pork, minced
• 100 grams rice
• 100 grams onions, finely chopped
• 50 grams carrots, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 50 grams tomato paste
• 30 ml vegetable oil
• 5 grams salt
• 5 grams black pepper
• 5 grams dill, chopped
• 50 grams sour cream

Method

• Prepare the cabbage leaves by blanching them in boiling water for 5 minutes until they are soft and pliable. Drain and set aside.
• In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil and sauté the onions, carrots, and garlic until the onions become translucent.
• Add the minced pork to the pan and cook until browned. Stir in the tomato paste, rice, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to combine.
• Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Stir in the chopped dill.
• Place a cabbage leaf on a flat surface. Add a generous amount of pork and rice mixture in the center of the leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf over the mixture, then roll from the bottom to the top to enclose the filling.
• Place the cabbage rolls in a large pot, seam side down, and pour over enough water to cover them. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 45 minutes.
• Serve the cabbage rolls hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, add a bay leaf to the simmering water.
• Use a toothpick to secure the rolls if they are difficult to keep closed.
• For a slightly sweet taste, add a pinch of sugar to the tomato paste mixture.

Nutritional Information