The Best Dinner in the World: Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Ingredients
- Onion: 1, peeled and diced
- Olive Oil: For sautéing
- Chili Pepper: To taste, chopped
- Red Bell Pepper: 1, chopped
- Salt: To taste
- Cooked Beef: 2.6 oz (75 g), chopped
- Potatoes: 1.7 lb (800 g), peeled and quartered
- Chinese Cabbage: To taste, leaves separated
- Eggs: 3
- Flour: 3 tablespoons (24 g)
- Breadcrumbs: 3.5 oz (100 g)
- Vegetable Oil: For frying
Preparation
1. Getting Started
Begin by preparing your ingredients. Peel and finely dice the onion into small cubes. Heat up some olive oil in a frying pan over low heat and add the diced onion. Sauté the onion until it turns a beautiful golden brown. This step is crucial as it develops the base flavor for the dish.
2. Cooking the Filling
While the onion is cooking, chop the red bell pepper and chili pepper into small cubes. Adjust the amount of chili pepper according to your heat preference. Add the chopped peppers to the pan with the onion. Continue cooking the mixture over medium heat until the peppers are soft and tender, releasing their sweet and spicy flavors.
Next, take the cooked beef and chop it into small, bite-sized pieces. Add the beef to the pan with the onions and peppers. Stir everything together and let it cook for a few more minutes until the flavors meld into a delicious, savory filling. Season the mixture with salt to taste.
3. Preparing the Potatoes
While your filling is cooking, peel and quarter the potatoes. Place them in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook the potatoes until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Once the potatoes are cooked through, drain them well.
Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. You can use a potato masher or a fork. The mashed potatoes will add a comforting, creamy texture to the filling. If you prefer a richer mash, you can add a little butter or milk, but this step is optional.
4. Preparing the Cabbage Leaves
Now it’s time to prepare the Chinese cabbage leaves. Separate the leaves and blanch them in boiling water for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. This will soften the leaves, making them pliable and easier to work with. Once blanched, drain the cabbage leaves and set them aside to cool slightly.
5. Assembling the Rolls
To assemble your cabbage rolls, lay out each Chinese cabbage leaf on a flat surface. Spoon a generous amount of the beef and potato mixture onto the center of each leaf. Carefully roll up the cabbage leaves, tucking in the sides as you go to create a tight, secure roll. The goal is to keep the filling snugly wrapped inside.
6. Breading and Frying
For that irresistible crispy exterior, it’s time to bread and fry the rolls. In a shallow dish, beat the eggs and mix them with the flour to create a light batter. Dip each cabbage roll into the egg and flour mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated.
Next, roll the coated cabbage rolls in the breadcrumbs until they are fully covered. The breadcrumbs will add a crunchy layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft, flavorful filling.
Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded cabbage rolls into the pan. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Be sure to turn them gently to ensure even cooking.
7. Serving Suggestions
Your Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them hot and crispy, right out of the pan. These rolls are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the dish by pairing it with a fresh salad, a tangy dipping sauce, or even a dollop of sour cream. The combination of textures and flavors will make every bite a satisfying experience.
Nutrition Information and Serving Size
Serving Size:
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
Nutrition Per Serving (approximate values):
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
Conclusion
This recipe is not just a meal—it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. The crispy exterior gives way to a soft, savory filling that’s both comforting and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, these stuffed cabbage rolls are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy them every day, because with a dish this good, you’ll never get tired of it!