Ukrainian Stuffed Cabbage

Ukrainian Stuffed Cabbage Recipe - Delicious and Flavorful

Region / culture: Ukraine | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Stuffed cabbage, also known as holubtsi in Ukrainian cuisine, is a traditional dish that is loved for its hearty and comforting flavors. This dish consists of tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of minced meat, rice, and spices, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

Stuffed cabbage has been a staple in Ukrainian cuisine for centuries, with variations of the dish found in many Eastern European countries. This dish is often served during special occasions and holidays, as it is a labor-intensive dish that requires time and effort to prepare. The combination of tender cabbage leaves and flavorful filling has made stuffed cabbage a beloved dish in Ukrainian culture.

Ingredients

1 cabbage head

Filling

250 g pork minced meat
250 g beef minced meat
3 onions
200 g smoked lard
2 tbsp finely chopped parsley
3 tbsp bread crumbs
3 tbsp butter
salt
ground nutmeg
100 g sour cream

How to prepare

Cook the cabbage head in lightly salted boiling water for 10 minutes, then remove and pat dry.
Gently peel back the outer large leaves and remove the smaller leaves from the center.

Filling

Cube half of a lard and fry it with chopped onion.
In a bowl, combine mincemeat, rice, breadcrumbs, spices, finely chopped cabbage leaves from the center, onion, and lard.
Sprinkle the inside of the cabbage with salt, place lard pieces at the bottom, and stuff with the filling mixture.
Fold the leaves back over the filling and press tightly.
Place the cabbage head on a baking sheet and add water to prevent burning.
Bake in the oven, regularly pouring the juices from the sheet over the cabbage.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute the minced meat with cooked lentils or mushrooms.
Add diced tomatoes or tomato sauce to the filling for a tangy twist.
Experiment with different spices such as paprika, cumin, or dill for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When boiling the cabbage head, be sure to cook it just until the leaves are tender enough to peel back easily.

- To prevent the cabbage leaves from tearing when rolling, gently remove them from the head and trim the thick center rib.

- Pressing the stuffed cabbage tightly before baking will help keep the filling in place and ensure a neat presentation.

- Regularly basting the cabbage with the cooking juices while baking will help keep it moist and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the stuffed cabbage with a dollop of sour cream on top and a side of 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 smoked lard is not available, you can use bacon or pancetta for a similar smoky flavor.

- Substitute the minced meat with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the stuffed cabbage ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. This dish also freezes well for future meals.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the stuffed cabbage with fresh parsley or dill for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the stuffed cabbage with a crisp salad or pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350 per serving

Carbohydrates

25g per serving

Fats

15g per serving

Proteins

20g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as iron and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the breadcrumbs and dairy from the butter and sour cream.

Summary

Stuffed cabbage is a well-rounded dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Stuffed cabbage is a classic Ukrainian dish that is loved for its comforting flavors and hearty ingredients. This recipe provides a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for special occasions or family gatherings. Enjoy the tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of minced meat, rice, and spices for a truly memorable dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Ukraine. My grandmother, who was known for her delicious cooking, had invited me into her kitchen to teach me how to make one of our family's favorite dishes - Ukrainian Stuffed Cabbage.

I remember the aroma of onions and garlic sautéing in the pan, the sound of cabbage leaves being carefully separated, and the feeling of anticipation as I watched my grandmother work her magic in the kitchen. She moved with such grace and confidence, her hands moving swiftly as she mixed together the ingredients for the stuffing - ground beef, rice, onions, and seasonings.

As she filled each cabbage leaf with a generous spoonful of the mixture and rolled it into a neat little bundle, I couldn't help but be amazed by her skill. She lined them up in a large pot, covering them with a tangy tomato sauce before placing them in the oven to bake to perfection.

While we waited for the stuffed cabbage to cook, my grandmother told me the story of how she had first learned to make this dish. It had been passed down through generations of our family, with each cook adding their own special touch to the recipe.

She explained that the key to making the perfect Ukrainian Stuffed Cabbage was to use fresh, high-quality ingredients and to take your time with each step. "Cooking is a labor of love," she would say, "and when you put your heart into it, the results will always be delicious."

As the stuffed cabbage baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with its mouthwatering scent, my grandmother and I sat down at the table to enjoy a warm cup of tea. She told me stories of her own grandmother, who had taught her how to cook when she was just a young girl, passing down recipes and techniques that had been in our family for generations.

I listened intently, soaking in every word and savoring the warm feeling of being surrounded by family and tradition. It was in that moment that I knew I wanted to carry on the legacy of Ukrainian cooking, to preserve these recipes and pass them down to future generations.

When the stuffed cabbage was finally ready, we sat down to enjoy a meal together. The tender cabbage leaves, filled with savory meat and rice, melted in my mouth with each bite. The flavors were rich and comforting, a true taste of home.

As I savored each bite, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for my grandmother and all that she had taught me. Her guidance and wisdom had shaped me into the cook I was today, and I knew that I would always hold onto the memories of learning to make Ukrainian Stuffed Cabbage with her.

And so, as I sit here now, reflecting on that day in my grandmother's kitchen so many years ago, I am filled with a sense of pride and nostalgia. The recipe for Ukrainian Stuffed Cabbage has become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire, a reminder of the love and tradition that has been passed down through my family for generations.

I am grateful for the lessons I learned that day, for the memories of cooking with my grandmother, and for the delicious food that continues to bring my family together. The recipe for Ukrainian Stuffed Cabbage will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the bond between generations and the joy that comes from sharing a meal with loved ones.