Indian-style Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Ingredients

In this Indian adaptation of the Italian Millecosedde, the traditional Italian ingredients are replaced with Indian spices and flavors. The original dish typically uses a filling of ground meat, cheese, and herbs, while the Indian version incorporates a blend of ground meat, aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric, and fresh herbs like cilantro. The tomato-based curry sauce adds a distinct Indian touch, infusing the dish with rich flavors and a hint of spiciness. We alse have the original recipe for Millecosedde, so you can check it out.

• 1 large cabbage head 1 large cabbage head
• 500g (1.1 lb) ground meat (chicken, lamb, or beef) 500g (1.1 lb) ground meat (chicken, lamb, or beef)
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste 1 teaspoon ginger paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste) 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup tomato puree 1 cup tomato puree
• 1 cup water 1 cup water
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the cabbage leaves, one by one, and blanch them in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they become pliable. Remove and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, ginger paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. 3.
   Take a cabbage leaf and place a spoonful of the meat mixture in the center. Roll the leaf tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
4. 4.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Place the stuffed cabbage rolls in the pan, seam side down, and cook until they are lightly browned on all sides.
5. 5.
   Add the tomato puree and water to the pan. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage rolls are cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
6. 6.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cabbage — Choose a cabbage head that is firm and fresh. The outer leaves should be crisp and free from blemishes. Blanching the cabbage leaves helps to soften them and make them easier to roll.
• Ground meat — Opt for lean ground meat for a healthier option. You can use chicken, lamb, or beef based on your preference. Make sure the meat is well-seasoned and mixed thoroughly with the spices for maximum flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• To make the cabbage leaves more pliable, you can remove the tough center stalk by carefully cutting it out before blanching.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red chili powder or add some chopped green chilies to the filling mixture.
• Serve the stuffed cabbage rolls with a side of fragrant basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete meal.
• You can make the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.
• Feel free to experiment with the filling by adding additional spices or vegetables like peas or carrots for extra flavor and texture.

Serving advice

Serve the Indian-style stuffed cabbage rolls hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. They can be enjoyed as a main course accompanied by rice or bread, or as a part of a larger Indian feast.

Presentation advice

Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls on a platter, drizzle some of the tomato curry sauce over them, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro for an appealing presentation. Serve with a side of rice or bread to complete the meal.