Cabbage Rolls with Rice is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender cabbage leaves with a savory rice and vegetable filling, all simmered together in a flavorful tomato sauce. This traditional dish, inspired by German cuisine, is perfect for a family meal or a special gathering. The cabbage rolls are stuffed with a mix of rice, mushrooms, onions, and spices, then cooked in a rich tomato sauce. The result is a deliciously satisfying meal that’s both nourishing and full of flavor.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 large cabbage
• 300 ml (1.2 cups) milk
• 500 ml (2 cups) water
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• Olive oil (for sautéing)
• 320 g (2 cups) mushrooms, sliced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste (for filling)
• 1 cup rice
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (for sauce)
• 3-4 tablespoons olive oil (for sauce)
• 600 ml (3 cups) water (for sauce)
• Fresh or dried parsley
• Dried garlic
• Dried mint
• Dried pepper
• Herbs of Provence
• Caraway seeds

Directions:

1. Prepare the Cabbage:
   • Cut out the top of the cabbage and remove the core.
   • Blanch the cabbage in boiling water for 5 minutes to soften the leaves. Drain and let cool.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
   • Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 10-12 minutes until tender.
   • Stir in salt, soy sauce, and 3 tablespoons tomato paste. Mix well.
   • Add rice and mix thoroughly. Remove from heat.
3. Assemble the Rolls:
   • Carefully peel off the softened cabbage leaves. Cut out the hard part of each leaf.
   • Place a spoonful of the rice mixture onto each leaf. Roll up the leaves and tuck in the sides to form neat rolls.
   • Place the rolls in a large pot.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
   • Mix 2 tablespoons tomato paste with 3-4 tablespoons olive oil in a bowl. Add 600 ml water and stir until combined.
   • Pour the sauce over the cabbage rolls in the pot.
5. Cook the Rolls:
   • Cover the pot with a lid and simmer over medium heat for 45 minutes.
6. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Tips for Making:

• Blanching Cabbage: To make rolling easier, ensure you blanch the cabbage leaves well. This will soften them and make them more pliable.
• Rice Cooking: Slightly undercook the rice before mixing it with the other filling ingredients to avoid it becoming too mushy during cooking.
• Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add more herbs or spices if desired.

Variations:

• Meat Variation: For a heartier option, you can add ground beef or pork to the rice filling.
• Vegetarian Option: Use lentils or other legumes in place of the meat for a vegetarian version.
• Sauce Variation: Experiment with adding different spices or herbs to the sauce, such as cumin or smoked paprika, for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• Side Dishes: Serve with a side of mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple green salad.
• Accompaniments: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can be a delightful addition.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Cabbage rolls can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely before freezing. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Nutritional Information:

• Serving Size: 1 roll
• Calories: Approximately 150-200 kcal
• Protein: 4-6 g
• Fat: 8-10 g
• Carbohydrates: 20-25 g
• Fiber: 3-4 g

Possible Questions About This Recipe:

• Can I use a different type of rice? Yes, you can use any type of rice you prefer, such as brown rice or jasmine rice. Just be mindful of the cooking times.
• What if I don’t have all the spices? You can omit or substitute with other herbs and spices according to your preference.
• Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, cabbage rolls can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. They often taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Conclusion:

Cabbage Rolls with Rice is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for family dinners and gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a dish to impress your guests, these cabbage rolls are sure to satisfy. With a blend of savory rice, tender cabbage, and a flavorful tomato sauce, this recipe brings together simplicity and taste in every bite. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of this traditional dish, and don’t be afraid to experiment with variations to make it your own.