Ingredients:

• 1 head of cabbage
• 3 liters (101 pt) water
• 1 kg (2 lb) minced meat (beef, pork, or a combination)
• 2 eggs
• 3 g (0.1 oz) salt
• 3 g (0.1 oz) black pepper
• 50 g (1.8 oz) butter
• 200 g (7.1 oz) cheese, shredded (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• 200 g (7.1 oz) bacon, diced

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

1. Boil the Cabbage: Bring 3 liters of water to a boil in a large pot. Remove the core of the cabbage head using a sharp knife. Once the water is boiling, submerge the whole cabbage head in the water. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the outer leaves are tender and can be easily peeled off. Set the leaves aside to cool slightly.
2. Separate the Leaves: Once the cabbage has cooled enough to handle, carefully peel away the outer leaves. You will need around 10-12 large cabbage leaves for wrapping. Trim the thick part of the stem at the base of each leaf to make rolling easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Mix the Meat and Seasoning: In a large bowl, combine the minced meat with eggs, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
2. Add the Bacon: Dice the bacon into small pieces and fold it into the meat mixture. This adds a smoky, savory flavor to the filling.
3. Shape the Filling: Take a portion of the meat mixture (about 1/4 cup) and shape it into a small log or roll that fits comfortably within the cabbage leaf.

Step 3: Roll the Cabbage

1. Assemble the Rolls: Place a meat log in the center of a cabbage leaf. Fold the sides over the meat and then roll it from the bottom up, encasing the filling. Repeat this process with the remaining meat mixture and cabbage leaves.
2. Prepare the Cooking Dish: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with butter and place the cabbage rolls seam side down in the dish, packed tightly together.

Step 4: Add the Cheese and Butter

1. Butter the Rolls: Melt the butter and drizzle it over the cabbage rolls to add moisture and richness.
2. Top with Cheese: Generously sprinkle the shredded cheese over the cabbage rolls. The cheese will melt and create a delicious, gooey topping as the rolls bake.

Step 5: Bake the Rolls

1. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes to allow the cheese to brown and become bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, let the cabbage rolls rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or serve with a side of sour cream for extra richness.

Cooking Tips:

• Cabbage Variety: Savoy cabbage works particularly well for this recipe due to its flexible leaves. If you’re using regular green cabbage, boiling it longer will help the leaves become more pliable.
• Adjust Seasoning: You can adjust the seasoning in the filling to your liking. Add herbs like thyme or parsley for an extra layer of flavor.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with the cheese. Mozzarella will give you a melty, stringy texture, while cheddar adds a sharp flavor. A mixture of both works wonderfully.
• Crispy Bacon: For extra texture, you can pre-cook the bacon until slightly crispy before adding it to the meat mixture.

Storage:

• Refrigeration: Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked cabbage rolls in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To cook, thaw them overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. Alternatively, freeze cooked cabbage rolls and reheat in the oven when ready to eat.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate):

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 35 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fat: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sodium: 720 mg
• Sugar: 3 g

FAQs:

1. Can I use different meats?
   • Yes, you can use a combination of beef, pork, or even ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. The mixture of pork and beef adds a depth of flavor, but feel free to adjust it to your preference.
2. How do I prevent the cabbage rolls from falling apart?
   • Make sure the cabbage leaves are pliable by boiling them enough. When rolling, ensure that the rolls are tight and place them seam side down in the baking dish. This will help keep them together as they bake.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   • Absolutely! You can prepare the cabbage rolls up to the point of baking and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Simply bake them when you’re ready to serve.
4. Can I add rice to the filling?
   • Yes, adding a half-cup of cooked rice to the meat mixture is a great way to stretch the filling and add another texture.
5. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
   • Yes! Substitute the meat with cooked lentils, quinoa, or a plant-based meat substitute, and omit the bacon for a delicious vegetarian version.

Conclusion: Cabbage rolls with minced meat, bacon, and cheese is a hearty and satisfying dish that combines the comforting flavors of tender cabbage, rich and savory meat, and gooey melted cheese. The addition of bacon adds a smoky flavor, while the cheese topping brings everything together in a delightful, cheesy crust. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize the filling with your favorite seasonings and even adjust the meat to suit your preferences. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a comforting meal any night of the week. With its balanced flavors and textures, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!