Ingredients

2 heads cabbage , cored ( each 2 lb/1kg )
1 1/4 cups chicken stock
1/2 cup parboiled rice
8 slices bacon , finely chopped
2 tablespoons butter
3 onions , chopped
2 garlic cloves , minced
1/2 cup sweet red pepper , finely chopped
1 1/2 teaspoons dried marjoram
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef
1/2 cup fresh parsley , chopped
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 egg , beaten
1 can sauerkraut , rinsed and squeezed dry
3 tablespoons brown sugar , packed
1 can tomato juice
Country Cabbage Rolls are a classic comfort food that is often served in Eastern Europe and the Balkans. This hearty dish consists of ground beef, rice, and vegetables rolled in cabbage leaves and baked in tomato juice. The sauerkraut on the bottom of the pan adds a tangy flavor and helps keep the rolls moist during baking. This recipe yields a large serving size that is perfect for feeding a crowd or freezing for later. Serve the rolls with a side of crusty bread and a green salad for a complete meal.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 350°F/175°C.
2.Cut off the stem of each cabbage head, then core the center by making a cone-shaped incision around the center. Boil the cabbage heads in salted water for 10-12 minutes, then drain and let cool.
3.In a saucepan, bring chicken stock to a boil, then stir in rice. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 12-14 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Set aside.
4.In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from skillet and set aside, then add butter to the rendered bacon fat in the skillet. Sauté onions and garlic for 2-3 minutes or until slightly softened, then add red pepper, marjoram, and thyme. Cook until the vegetables are soft, then stir in ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned and crumbled.
5.In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, parsley, salt, pepper, egg, and bacon. Add the beef and vegetable mixture, then mix until well combined.
6.Spread the sauerkraut on the bottom of a large roasting pan. Cut each cabbage head into quarters, then place the quarters in the pan with the rolls resting on the sauerkraut. Pour tomato juice over the rolls, then sprinkle with brown sugar.
7.Cover the pan with foil and bake for 2 hours, then remove the foil and bake for another 30 minutes or until the rolls are browned and the cabbage is tender.

PROS

Country Cabbage Rolls are a filling and flavorful meal that can be made in advance and reheated.

This recipe yields a large serving size and can be adjusted to fit your needs.

CONS

This recipe takes a long time to prepare and bake.

The rolls are high in calories and fat due to the beef and bacon.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Cabbage is a rich source of vitamins and nutrients, including vitamin C and K, which can support immune function and bone health.
Sauerkraut is a fermented food that contains probiotics that can promote healthy gut function and digestion. Lean beef is a good source of protein, iron, and other important nutrients.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.