Cabbage Rolls (wrapped cabbage leaves)

Tender winter cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory meat and rice filling and slow-cooked to perfection — a comforting main course.

Prep time: 40 minutes · Cook time: 50 minutes · Servings: 5

Ingredients

• 1 large white cabbage

• 300 g ground meat

• 1 cup rice

• 1 onion, grated

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon dried mint, 1 teaspoon cumin

• Salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes

• 2 tablespoons butter

• Lemon juice

Instructions

1. Core the cabbage, blanch the leaves in boiling water for about a minute each, then separate them.

2. Mix the ground meat, rice, onion, tomato paste, and spices to prepare the filling.

3. Place a spoonful of filling on each leaf and roll it up tightly.

4. Line the bottom of the pot with the leftover cabbage pieces, then arrange the rolls on top.

5. Add water, lemon juice, and melted butter over the rolls.

6. Press down with a plate and cook over low heat for 45-50 minutes.

7. Serve hot, with yogurt on the side if desired.