Ukrainian-style cabbage rolls
Description
The recipe won't take much time. Cabbage rolls are very popular in Ukraine, Russia, and Moldova. In Bulgaria, they are called "sarmi," and in Romania, "sarmale." In Azerbaijan, there is an identical dish, but instead of cabbage leaves, grape leaves are used, and the dish is called "dolma." Cabbage rolls turn out tastiest when made with young cabbage, but they are prepared all year round and even featured on festive tables. Serve hot.
Instructions
- 1
Step 1
1. It was once believed that stuffed cabbage rolls were an authentic Russian dish, but this view has changed over the centuries. Today, Ukrainian-style cabbage rolls are commonly prepared at home and even served on festive occasions. In villages, no wedding goes by without this dish, and cooks can use any filling they like: meat, vegetables, beans, cottage cheese, mushrooms, rice, rice with meat, and so on.
- 2
Step 2
2. Prepare the leaves. To do this, place the cabbage head into salted water and cook over medium heat. Then remove it and peel off the required number of leaves. If necessary, place it back into boiling water and repeat the same procedure.
- 3
Step 3
3. Meanwhile, cook the rice, then mix it with the minced meat, salt it and season to taste. The filling goes well with a mixture of peppers, coriander, and garlic.
- 4
Step 4
4. Wrap each leaf with the filling into a parcel and place them into a pot where the stuffed cabbage rolls will be simmered. Prepare the sauce separately: sauté onions and carrots, add tomato paste, and pour in water. Bring to a boil, then pour the sauce over the cabbage rolls. Place on medium heat to simmer. Cook for about half an hour.
- 5
Step 5
5. Before serving, drizzle with sauce and sour cream, and sprinkle with herbs (optional). Cabbage rolls go well with a side dish of mashed potatoes.