Stuffed Cabbage Leaves: Gourmet Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 large head green cabbage
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cut out the core of the cabbage and carefully peel off the leaves. Blanch the cabbage leaves in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes or until they are tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until the onion is translucent. Add the ground beef and brown it, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula as it cooks. Add the cooked white rice, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper, stirring until well combined.
4. Place 2-3 tablespoons of the beef and rice mixture on the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold the bottom of the leaf up over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll up tightly until you have a neat package. Repeat until all the filling is used up.
5. In a baking dish, spread a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom. Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down on top of the sauce. Pour the beef broth over the top of the rolls, then drizzle with lemon juice.
6. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 1 hour or until the stuffed cabbage rolls are tender and the flavors have melded together.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Verdict:

This stuffed cabbage leaves recipe is perfect for a gourmet dinner party or special occasion. The combination of seasoned beef and rice, tender cabbage leaves, and tomato sauce with beef broth creates a flavorful and satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair stuffed cabbage leaves with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread. A glass of red wine or a sparkling water with lemon will complement the flavors well.