Golubtsi (Stuffed cabbage rolls)

These Golubtsi—traditional stuffed cabbage rolls—are filled with a vibrant mix of basmati rice, herbs, lemon zest, and toasted pine nuts. Gently steamed until tender, each roll is a bite of comfort with a zesty twist, thanks to a sprinkle of sumac and a buttery finish. Whether you're craving a wholesome vegetarian dish or exploring Eastern European flavors, this recipe is a delicious and heartwarming addition to your table.

Ingredients

• Cabbage leaves, 10-12, rinsed
• Basmati rice, 200g, cooked
• Onion, 1, chopped
• Pine nuts, small handful, toasted
• Lemon peel, 1 tbsp, chopped
• Parsley, small handful, chopped
• Thyme leaves, 1 tbsp
• Egg, 1, beaten
• Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, as needed
• Butter, ½ cup
• Sumac, as needed

Directions

1. Add salt, water, and cabbage leaves into the pot and place it over medium-high flame. Cook for 2 minutes until tender.
2. Transfer it to cold or iced water. Drain and pat it dry with a kitchen towel.
3. Place the pan over medium-high flame. Add olive oil and heat it.Then, add chopped onion, lower the heat to low, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Season with pepper and salt. Add chopped lemon and cook for 5 minutes.
4. Transfer it to the bowl.
5. Add beaten egg, chopped parsley, thyme leaves, toasted pine nuts,lemon, onion, and cooked rice into the big bowl and combine well.Season with pepper, salt, and sumac.
6. Make the rolls by adding a tbsp of rice filling in the middle of each cabbage leaf. Then, fold in over the filling.Place it into the pan with 120ml of water and simmer it.
7. Cover the pan and steam for 15 to 20 minutes.
8. When done, serve!