Linivi Holubtsi (Lazy Cabbage Rolls)

Method

1. 1

   Parboil the rice in salted water for 10 minutes, until half-cooked; drain.

2. 2

   Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and brown the ground beef with the onion and garlic, breaking up the meat, about 6 minutes.

3. 3

   Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook, stirring, until it wilts down noticeably, about 5 minutes.

4. 4

   Add the par-cooked rice, canned tomato, tomato paste, bay leaf and 300 ml of water; stir to combine.

5. 5

   Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the rice and cabbage are both fully tender, about 15 minutes.

   💡 Add a splash more water if it looks dry before the rice is done — it should stay loose, not stiff.

6. 6

   Take off the heat, discard the bay leaf, and stir in the sour cream until the sauce turns creamy.

7. 7

   Season with salt and pepper, scatter with dill, and serve hot.