Holishkes

Ingredients

• •1 large green cabbage
• •1 1/2 lb ground beef
• •1/2 cup uncooked rice or 1/3 cup matzo meal
• •1 medium onion, finely chopped
• •1 egg
• •2 tsp kosher salt
• •1/2 tsp black pepper
• •1 tbsp sweet paprika
• •1 tbsp vegetable oil
• •1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• •2 tbsp tomato paste
• •2 tbsp brown sugar
• •2 tbsp lemon juice
• •1 cup sauerkraut, optional
• •2 cups water or stock

Instructions

1. 1

   Core the cabbage and blanch it in boiling water, peeling off softened leaves as they loosen; trim the thick ribs.

2. 2

   Mix the ground beef with the rice or matzo meal, chopped onion, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika.

3. 3

   Place a portion of filling on each cabbage leaf and roll tightly, folding in the sides to enclose the filling.

4. 4

   In a large pot, spread a little sauce and optional sauerkraut on the bottom to prevent sticking.

5. 5

   Combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, brown sugar, lemon juice, oil, and water or stock to make a sweet-tart sauce.

6. 6

   Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the pot and pour the sauce over them.

7. 7

   Cover and simmer gently for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, until the cabbage is very tender and the filling is cooked through.

8. 8

   Let the rolls rest for 15 minutes before serving so the sauce settles and the flavors meld.