Holubtsi (Stuffed Cabbage Rolls)

Method

1. 1

   Core the cabbage and simmer the whole head in salted water, peeling off leaves as they soften, about 10 minutes.

   💡 Shave down the thick central rib of each leaf so it rolls without cracking.

2. 2

   Soften half the onion in oil, then mix with the pork, par-cooked rice, salt and pepper.

3. 3

   Place a spoonful of filling at the base of each leaf, fold in the sides and roll snugly.

4. 4

   Fry the remaining onion and carrot, stir in tomato paste and sour cream, and loosen with 400 ml of water to make the sauce.

5. 5

   Pack the rolls seam-down in a baking dish, pour over the sauce, tuck in the bay leaves and cover.

6. 6

   Bake at 180°C for 75 minutes until the cabbage is completely tender.

7. 7

   Rest 10 minutes and serve with the sauce spooned over.