Jordanian Stuffed Cabbage

Introduction

History

Stuffed cabbage dishes have been enjoyed in Jordan for generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to the recipe. This dish is often served during holidays and celebrations, as it is a comforting and satisfying meal that brings people together.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to boil the cabbage leaves until they are tender but still firm enough to hold the filling.

- Mixing the tomato sauce with the ground turkey, rice, and spices creates a flavorful and moist filling.

- Packing the cabbage leaves tightly in the baking dish will help them hold their shape while baking.

- Adding sliced onion rings and bacon strips on top of the stuffed cabbage adds extra flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Jordanian Stuffed Cabbage can be served with a side of yogurt, a fresh salad, or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the stuffed cabbage in the oven allows the flavors to meld together and the cabbage leaves to become tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have ground turkey, you can use ground chicken or pork as a substitute. You can also use any type of cooked grain in place of rice.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the stuffed cabbage ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. This dish also freezes well, so you can make a batch and save some for later.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the stuffed cabbage with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color. Serve it on a decorative platter for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Jordanian Stuffed Cabbage pairs well with a glass of red wine, such as a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. A side of tabbouleh salad or hummus also complements the flavors of this dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover stuffed cabbage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Jordanian Stuffed Cabbage contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Jordanian Stuffed Cabbage contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Jordanian Stuffed Cabbage contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Jordanian Stuffed Cabbage contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Jordanian Stuffed Cabbage is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and wheat (from Worcestershire sauce), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Jordanian Stuffed Cabbage is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Jordanian Stuffed Cabbage is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. With a savory filling of ground turkey, rice, and spices, all baked to perfection, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day in Amman, Jordan, and I was wandering through the bustling markets filled with vibrant colors and intoxicating scents. I stumbled upon a small stall where an elderly woman was selling a variety of spices and dried herbs. Intrigued by the intoxicating aroma wafting from her stand, I struck up a conversation with her.

She told me that she was from a small village in the countryside and had been cooking traditional Jordanian dishes for as long as she could remember. She had a twinkle in her eye as she shared stories of her youth, spent in her grandmother's kitchen, learning the secrets of flavorful and hearty meals.

One recipe she mentioned that piqued my interest was for stuffed cabbage, a dish that she claimed was a staple in Jordanian households. She explained that the filling was a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and spices, all wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and simmered in a fragrant tomato broth.

Intrigued by the thought of mastering this traditional dish, I asked her if she would be willing to teach me how to make it. She agreed with a smile and invited me to her home the following day.

I arrived at her modest cottage early in the morning, eager to learn the secrets of Jordanian cuisine. She greeted me warmly and ushered me into her cozy kitchen, where the intoxicating aroma of spices filled the air.

She handed me a sharp knife and a head of cabbage, instructing me on how to carefully peel off the leaves without tearing them. As I worked, she prepared the filling, a fragrant mixture of ground beef, rice, onions, and a blend of Middle Eastern spices.

Once the cabbage leaves were ready, she showed me how to carefully spoon the filling onto each leaf and roll it into a neat little package. As I watched her deft hands work their magic, I couldn't help but marvel at her skill and experience.

After all the cabbage leaves were filled and rolled, she placed them in a large pot and poured over a rich tomato broth, seasoned with even more spices. She covered the pot and let it simmer gently on the stove, filling the kitchen with the tantalizing aroma of slowly cooking flavors.

As we waited for the dish to finish cooking, she regaled me with stories of her childhood in the village, where she learned the art of cooking from her grandmother. She spoke of long summer days spent gathering fresh herbs and vegetables from the garden, and of cozy winter nights huddled around the hearth, savoring steaming bowls of hearty stews.

Finally, the stuffed cabbage was ready, and she ladled generous portions onto our plates. The tender cabbage leaves melted in my mouth, releasing a burst of savory flavors that danced on my taste buds. The filling was perfectly seasoned, with just the right balance of spices and textures.

As we ate, she shared more recipes with me, each one more delicious and intriguing than the last. I felt like I had stumbled upon a hidden treasure trove of culinary wisdom, passed down through generations of skilled cooks.

When it was time for me to leave, she gifted me a small jar of her homemade spice blend, a precious souvenir from our shared cooking adventure. I thanked her profusely for her generosity and wisdom, promising to carry on the tradition of Jordanian cooking in my own kitchen.

And so, armed with a newfound appreciation for the art of Middle Eastern cuisine, I returned home eager to recreate the flavors of that magical day in Amman. The recipe for Jordanian Stuffed Cabbage has since become a beloved favorite in my own repertoire, a tribute to the kind-hearted woman who shared her culinary heritage with me. Each time I make it, I am reminded of her warmth and hospitality, and of the rich tapestry of flavors that make Jordanian cuisine so special.

Categories

| Bacon Recipes | Beef Recipes | Cabbage Recipes | Garlic Powder Recipes | Green Cabbage Recipes | Green Cabbage Side Dish Recipes | Jordanian Recipes | Jordanian Vegetarian |

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