Töltött Káposzta, Füstölt Hússal (Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Smoked Meat) is a cherished dish in many Hungarian families, bringing together the comforting flavors of cabbage, ground meat, and the distinctive taste of smoked meat. Here’s a recipe to enjoy this family favorite. Jó étvágyat!
Töltött Káposzta, Füstölt Hússal (Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Smoked Meat)
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 500 grams (about 1 lb) ground pork (or a mix of ground pork and beef)
- 1/2 cup uncooked rice
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon marjoram (optional)
- 2 cups sauerkraut, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup smoked meat, such as smoked ham or bacon, diced
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- Sour cream, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Remove the core from the cabbage and carefully place the whole head into the boiling water. Boil for about 5-10 minutes, or until the outer leaves are softened. Carefully remove the cabbage and peel off the softened leaves. Repeat as needed to remove enough leaves for stuffing. Let the leaves cool slightly and trim the thick veins if necessary.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, uncooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and marjoram (if using). Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Stuff the Cabbage Leaves:
- Place a small amount of the meat mixture (about 2-3 tablespoons) onto the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly, like a burrito. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
- Assemble the Dish:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, spread a layer of sauerkraut on the bottom. Add a few pieces of smoked meat for extra flavor. Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls on top of the sauerkraut. Add any remaining sauerkraut and smoked meat on top of the rolls.
- Add Tomatoes and Liquid:
- Pour the diced tomatoes or tomato sauce over the cabbage rolls. Add enough chicken broth or water to cover the rolls partially.
- Cook the Stuffed Cabbage:
- Bring the pot to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cover and cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the cabbage and filling are fully cooked. Check occasionally and add more liquid if necessary.
- Serve:
- Serve the stuffed cabbage rolls hot, with a dollop of sour cream on top if desired.
Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for family gatherings and special occasions!