How to Make Turkish Cabbage Rolls (Lahana Dolmasi)
Turkish cabbage rolls, known as lahana dolması, are a delicious and traditional dish that combines the earthy flavors of cabbage with a savory filling. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make this delightful delicacy at home.
Ingredients
To prepare lahana dolması, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 large head of green cabbage
- 1 cup of rice
- 500g ground beef or lamb (optional for vegetarians)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, grated
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Olive oil (for drizzling)
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
Preparation Steps
1. Preparing the Cabbage
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage head. Once the water is boiling, gently place the cabbage into the pot and boil for about 5-7 minutes. This will soften the leaves and make them easier to roll. Once done, remove the cabbage and allow it to cool. Carefully peel off the leaves, setting them aside for stuffing.
2. Making the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice, ground meat (if using), chopped onion, grated tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, allspice, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix everything together until well combined. The filling should be moist but not too wet.
3. Stuffing the Cabbage Leaves
Take a cabbage leaf and place a spoonful of the filling at the base of the leaf. Fold in the sides and roll it up from the base to the tip, making sure the filling is secured inside. Repeat this process with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
4. Arranging the Rolls
In a large pot, place a few unrolled cabbage leaves at the bottom to prevent the rolls from burning. Then, arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls tightly in the pot. Drizzle some olive oil and pour the lemon juice over the top. Add the vegetable or chicken broth until it covers the rolls halfway.
5. Cooking the Cabbage Rolls
Cover the pot and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 40-50 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the rice to cook through.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, carefully remove the cabbage rolls from the pot. Serve them warm, garnished with fresh parsley. They pair wonderfully with a side of yogurt or a simple salad for a refreshing touch.
Conclusion
Making Turkish cabbage rolls (lahana dolması) is a rewarding and delicious experience. With proper preparation and the right ingredients, you can enjoy this comforting dish right at home, bringing a taste of Turkey to your dining table.