Introduction
This Gourmet Stuffed Cabbage with Creamy Dill Sauce is a flavorful and comforting dish that elevates the humble cabbage into a gourmet delight. Filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and aromatic herbs, and topped with a rich, tangy dill sauce, this dish is perfect for special occasions or a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Cabbage:
- 1 large cabbage, leaves separated
- 1 lb ground beef, pork, or turkey
- 1/2 cup cooked rice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
For the Creamy Dill Sauce:
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation Tips
- Soften the Cabbage Leaves: Blanch the cabbage leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to make them pliable for rolling.
- Cook the Rice Ahead: Use leftover rice or cook it fresh before mixing with the meat.
- Customize the Filling: Add grated carrots, chopped parsley, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Carefully separate the cabbage leaves and blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until soft. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, onion, garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
- Place a heaping tablespoon of the filling at the base of each cabbage leaf.
- Roll the leaf tightly, tucking in the sides as you go to form a neat roll.
- Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
Step 4: Cook the Stuffed Cabbage
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, pour the tomato sauce and broth, stirring to combine.
- Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in the sauce.
- Cover and simmer over low heat for 30-40 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked.
Step 5: Make the Dill Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix the sour cream, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 6: Serve
- Place the stuffed cabbage rolls on a plate and drizzle with the creamy dill sauce. Garnish with extra dill if desired.
Description
This Gourmet Stuffed Cabbage with Creamy Dill Sauce is a delightful combination of tender cabbage, savory filling, and a rich, tangy sauce. The balance of textures and flavors makes it a standout dish that’s both comforting and elegant.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Sodium: 540mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the rolls up to a day in advance, store in the refrigerator, and cook just before serving.
2. Can I freeze stuffed cabbage?
Absolutely! Freeze the uncooked or cooked rolls in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop when ready to serve.
3. Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, replace the ground meat with lentils, chickpeas, or a mix of sautéed vegetables and rice.
4. Can I use another sauce?
Sure! Replace the dill sauce with a tomato-based sauce or a light béchamel for a different flavor profile.
5. How do I serve this dish?
Serve as a main dish with crusty bread or a side of mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Recommendations
- Add More Veggies: Include grated carrots or celery in the filling for extra texture.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the filling or the tomato sauce for a kick.
- Serve with a Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad or cucumber yogurt salad for a refreshing contrast.
Conclusion
This Gourmet Stuffed Cabbage with Creamy Dill Sauce is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for impressing guests or treating your family to something special. With its comforting filling and luxurious sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite. Enjoy!