Holubtsi (Ukrainian Rolls)
Holubtsi are super simple to make using inexpensive ingredients, but they deliver the most delicious flavors. Cabbage leaves are stuffed with flavorful meat, veggies, and rice, and then simmered in a tasty tomato sauce...
Try these juicy cabbage rolls for a filling and healthy family dinner. And don't forget to make a double batch, as they are freezer friendly too.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium cabbage
- 1 big onion
- 1 big carrot
- 250 gr rice
- 2 cans of canned tomatoes
300 gr minced meat
- Salt, pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprica powder
- 1 tsp thyme or oregano
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 4 sprigs of parsley or dill
Method:
— step 1
The quantity of holubtsi depends on the size of cabbage leafs.
— step 2Boil rice in salted water till almost cooked (it has to be a little hard on the inside).
— step 3Cook the sauce with 1 can of canned tomatoes. Chop the onion, peel and grate the carrot. To sauté onion, carrot and garlic on olive oil. When the vegetables get soft, add 1 can of canned tomatoes and half a can of water. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stew it on mediom heat 15-20 min.
— step 4Carefully cut out the stem of the cabbage. Put it then in a big pot with boiling water. Boil the cabbage till you can separate the leafs without effort (you mustn't tear the leafs). Cut the thick parts near the stem.
— step 5Blend the sauce in a blender. Mix the sauce, rice, and minced meat in a big bowl, add fresh chopped greens.
— step 6Blend another can of canned tomatoes in a blender. Add salt and pepper to tasle. Pour half into the bottom of a baking dish or pan.
— step 7Form holubtsi wrapping the filling into cabbage leafs. Put them in one layer in the baking dish or pan, then pour tomato sauce on top, and make another layer. Pour the remaining sauce on top. Cover with a lid or with foil.
— step 8Bake on 180°C 1 hour minimum. Check the softness of cabbage. 30 min till cooked, take off the lid to evaporate exessive moisture.
— step 9Serve with sour cream.
