Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
Core and blanch the cabbage, then separate the leaves.
Mix minced meat with salt, pepper, eggs, and form into rolls with cabbage leaves.
Arrange bacon in a baking dish and add the rolls on top.
Combine sauce ingredients and pour over the rolls.
Cover and bake for 2 hours or until tender.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 2 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes | Kcal: 350 kcal per serving | Servings: 6
Why This Recipe Works
Our Cabbage Rolls are crafted with a mix of finely minced meat and aromatic spices, wrapped in tender blanched cabbage leaves, and baked to perfection with a slice of bacon. The rolls are then topped with a unique creamy dill sauce that adds a luxurious richness to the dish. The combination of these elements creates a balance of textures and flavors that are hearty yet refined.
Deep Dive into Ingredients
Minced Meat: The foundation of the rolls, providing a robust and meaty texture.
Cabbage: Chosen for its sweet and tender leaves, which wrap beautifully around the filling.
Bacon: Adds a crispy, smoky layer that envelops the rolls, infusing them with additional flavor.
Creamy Dill Sauce: Features cheese cream and sweet cooking cream blended with fresh dill, pickled cucumbers, and mustard, offering a tangy contrast to the savory meat.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
Preparation: Start by blanching the whole cabbage to soften the leaves, making them pliable for rolling without breaking.
Filling: Mix the minced meat with spices and eggs for binding, ensuring each roll is juicy and flavorful.
Assembly: Wrap the filling in cabbage leaves neatly, ensuring they are snug enough to hold their shape while allowing room for the filling to expand slightly as it cooks.
Baking: The rolls are first baked snugly under a blanket of bacon, allowing the fat from the bacon to render and seep into the rolls, adding depth to the flavor profile.
Finishing Touch: A final bake with the creamy dill sauce allows the flavors to meld beautifully, with the sauce thickening slightly to cloak each roll in a velvety layer of flavor.
Customization Tips
This recipe is wonderfully versatile:
Vegetarian Version: Substitute minced meat with a mixture of quinoa, lentils, and finely chopped vegetables for a vegetarian alternative.
Spice Variations: Adjust the level of garlic and black pepper or add chili flakes for a bit of heat.
Different Sauces: While the creamy dill sauce is recommended, these rolls also pair well with a tomato-based sauce for those who prefer a zestier taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these exquisite cabbage rolls on a platter with a side of mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad. They are perfect for making ahead, as the flavors deepen when left to sit overnight. Warm them up gently in the oven before serving to bring out the best taste and texture.
Conclusion
Every bite of these cabbage rolls is designed to deliver comfort and luxury in equal measure. Whether you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinner routine or seeking the perfect dish to showcase at a dinner party, these cabbage rolls promise satisfaction and elegance on every plate. Explore the richness of flavors and enjoy the accolades from your guests!