Ingredients

Method

In a saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent.

Add the chopped tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes) to the saucepan. If using fresh tomatoes, simmer them until they break down and release their juices. If using canned tomatoes, simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavours to meld.

Stir in the tomato paste, sugar, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences.

educe the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to develop and the sauce to thicken. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.

Golubtsy

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions until it's halfway done. Drain and set aside.

In a pan, sauté the chopped onion in vegetable oil until it becomes translucent.

Mix the sautéed onion with the ground beef, ground pork, half-cooked rice, salt, and pepper.

Carefully detach the cabbage leaves and blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes until they become flexible.

Cut out the thick central vein from the cabbage leaves if necessary.

Place a spoonful of the meat and rice mixture on each cabbage leaf and roll them tightly.

Place the cabbage rolls seam side down in a large pot.

Pour the tomato sauce and enough water to just cover the rolls over them.

Cover and simmer for about 2 hours, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld together.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs, if desired.