Traditional Ukrainian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Ukrainian Holubtsi

Delve into the heart of Ukrainian cuisine with Holubtsi, a sublime integration of the humble ingredients: fresh cabbage, seasoned meats, and a delectable sauce, echoing the country’s rich culinary footprint. This dish, with its comforting and enticing flavors, is a soulful experience, perfect for a cozy dinner for two. Holubtsi, or stuffed cabbage rolls, is a traditional Eastern European favorite, and this version promises a delightful experience for any gourmand with a taste for the authentic and the delightful. Each roll is a luscious bundle of spiced meats, enveloped in tender cabbage leaves for a dinner that’s as delightful as it is sincere.

Serves: 2, Difficulty: Expert

Preparation Time: 30 minutes, Cooking Time: 90 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 large cabbage leaves
• 200 grams of ground pork
• 200 grams of ground beef
• 100 grams of white rice
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 large carrot, grated
• 2 large tomatoes, diced
• 30 ml of vegetable oil
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Fresh dill, to garnish
• 100 ml of sour cream
• 1 bay leaf
• 200 grams of canned tomatoes

Method

• Begin by softening the cabbage leaves; blanch them in salted boiling water for a few minutes until tender. Drain and let them cool.
• In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant. Add the ground pork and beef, cooking until browned.
• Incorporate the grated carrot, diced fresh tomatoes, salt, and pepper, and stir well. Cook until the tomatoes soften.
• Combine this mixture with the cooked rice and let it cool slightly.
• Lay a cabbage leaf out, add a generous spoonful of the meat and rice mixture in the center, and roll it tightly, folding in the sides to secure the filling. Repeat with the remaining leaves.
• In a large saucepan, add a layer of canned tomatoes, and place the cabbage rolls seam-side down. Add the bay leaf for flavor.
• Pour the remaining canned tomatoes over the rolls, cover, and let them simmer for about 1.5 hours, until the cabbage is tender.
• Serve warm, topped with a dollop of sour cream and garnished with fresh dill.

Tips

Ensure the cabbage is tender by properly blanching it to avoid any cabbage roll tearing. For a flavor twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or cloves to the sauce for a subtly warm aroma.

Nutritional Information