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Smyrna-Style Cabbage Rolls with Beef, Tomato, and Avgolemono

Smyrna-style cabbage rolls, or 'lahcanodolmades', are a tribute to the rich culinary traditions of Smyrna, featuring tender cabbage leaves enveloping a savory beef filling, enhanced with the vibrant acidity of tomatoes and the creamy tang of avgolemono (egg-lemon sauce). These rolls are a staple in Greek and Middle Eastern kitchens, embodying comfort and warmth. The dish is a delightful harmony of flavors, with the buttery richness of the filling complemented by the fresh notes of lemon. The process of rolling each cabbage leaf is an art form, often passed down through generations, making it a cherished family recipe. Serve these cabbage rolls with a side of crusty bread to soak up the luscious tomato sauce, and experience a taste of history with each bite.

Main | Politiki | Gluten-Free | Nut-Free | Shellfish-Free | Soy-Free | Cabbage Roll | Frying Pan | Pot | Beef | Cabbage | Egg | Tomato | Boiling | Kneading | Rolling | Sautéing | Simmering | Whipping | Comfort Food | Family Gathering | Slow
Time to complete

Prep

30min

Cook

1h

Wait

15min

Total

1h 45min

Ingredients (Makes 6 portions)

Cabbage and Filling

  • 1 large head of cabbage, soft and pliable
  • 500 g ground beef (preferably from the shoulder)
  • 40 g unsalted butter
  • 3 medium onions, finely chopped
  • ½ cup (100 g) Carolina rice
  • salt, to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Cabbage and Sauce

  • 6 whole canned cherry tomatoes, drained and coarsely chopped
  • 600 g tomato juice

Avgolemono Sauce

  • 2 large eggs
  • juice of 2 lemons

Butter for Serving

  • 60 g unsalted butter
Nutrition Information (per 100g)
  • Calories: 150
  • Fat: 8
  • Protein: 10
  • Carbohydrates: 12
  • Fiber: 2
Directions

Prepare the Cabbage

  • 1. Using a sharp knife, carefully remove the tough stem from the cabbage and peel away 1-2 outer leaves, setting them aside.

Blanch the Cabbage

  • 2. Place the cabbage head in a large pot with the opening facing down. Add cold water until the cabbage is two-thirds submerged and bring to a boil with a pinch of salt. Cook for 10 minutes without covering the pot.

Cool and Separate Leaves

  • 3. Remove the pot from heat and allow the cabbage to sit in the hot water for an additional 15 minutes to loosen the leaves. Carefully extract the cabbage and let it cool.

Prepare the Filling

  • 4. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the onions until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Combine the Filling Ingredients

  • 5. In a large bowl, mix the sautéed onions with the ground beef, rice, chopped tomatoes, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Rolls

  • 6. Line the bottom of a deep pot with the reserved outer cabbage leaves. Take each cabbage leaf, place it on a work surface, and add 1 tablespoon of the filling in the center. Fold the sides inwards and roll tightly.

Cook the Rolls

  • 7. In a frying pan, melt the butter over high heat and pour it over the arranged cabbage rolls in the pot. Add the tomato juice, season with salt and pepper, and enough hot water to cover the rolls. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour.

Prepare the Avgolemono Sauce

  • 8. In a bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. Gradually incorporate the lemon juice while continuing to whisk.

Temper the Avgolemono Sauce

  • 9. Slowly add a ladle of the hot broth from the pot into the egg mixture, whisking continuously until warmed through.

Finish the Dish

  • 10. Pour the avgolemono sauce back into the pot and gently shake to combine. Allow to rest for 10 minutes before serving the cabbage rolls.
Cookix's Secrets

Alternative Cooking Methods

  • Try baking the rolls in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 45 minutes instead of simmering.

Flavor Enhancements

  • Add fresh herbs such as dill or parsley to the filling for an aromatic twist.

Healthier Variations

  • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.

Preparation Tips

  • Ensure the cabbage is very soft for easy rolling. If necessary, blanch the leaves for an additional minute.

Seasonal Tweaks

  • Incorporate seasonal vegetables like finely diced carrots or zucchini into the filling.

Serving Suggestion

  • Serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.