Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Rice and Cheese Sauce

This delightful recipe is for stuffed cabbage rolls filled with rice and a blend of exquisite Džiugas cheeses, offering a unique twist on a classic dish. The creamy cheese sauce elevates the dish to a new level, making it a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. The use of carefully selected spices, including thyme and parsley, adds aromatic depth. The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, taking only about 50 minutes from start to finish. Ideal for both family dinners and special gatherings, these stuffed rolls are sure to impress. The pairing of 24-month matured Džiugas Delicate cheese with 36-month matured Džiugas Gourmet cheese creates a rich, flavorful experience. The combination of soft cabbage leaves and the creamy cheese mixture results in a dish that's both satisfying and delicious. As it bakes, the aroma will fill your kitchen, promising a mouthwatering feast. Serve these rolls as a main dish, complementing them with a fresh salad or rustic bread.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

8 large cabbage leaves
200 g white rice
100 g grated Džiugas Delicate cheese (24-month aged)
150 g grated Džiugas Gourmet cheese (36-month aged) for the sauce

Spices and Sauce:

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon chopped parsley leaves
Salt to taste
1 liter milk
50 g wheat flour

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the White Sauce: In a pan, melt some butter over medium heat. Add the wheat flour gradually, stirring continuously. Slowly pour in the milk, continuing to stir to prevent lumps.
Add 150 g of the grated Džiugas Gourmet cheese to the sauce mixture. Stir well until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens. Set aside.
In a separate pot, cook the white rice according to the package instructions and set aside.
Meanwhile, prepare the cabbage leaves by boiling them briefly in salted water until they're tender. Before boiling, use a knife to remove the thick central vein from each leaf.
Drain the cooked rice and mix it in a bowl with the grated Džiugas Delicate cheese.
Add thyme, chopped parsley leaves, and a pinch of salt to the rice mixture. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Place a portion of the rice filling onto each cabbage leaf.
Carefully roll up each leaf to form a neat package or roll, ensuring the filling is sealed inside.
Place the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in a baking dish.
Pour the prepared white cheese sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are well covered.
Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F).
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes or until the cheese sauce is bubbly and slightly golden.
Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving to make them easier to handle.
For a more intense flavor, substitute half of the milk in the cheese sauce with chicken or vegetable broth.
For vegetarians, use a plant-based milk alternative in place of cow's milk.
If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of chili flakes to the rice mixture.
Avoid cutting cabbage leaves too thinly as they may tear during boiling or rolling.
Use a toothpick to secure each roll if it tends to unfurl during baking.
Monitor the oven closely to prevent the cheese sauce from burning or over-browning.
Enjoy these rolls fresh from the oven for the best flavor and texture.

Tips

Use older cheese for an even more intense flavor.
If Džiugas cheese is unavailable, replace it with another mature hard cheese.
For a creamier sauce, incorporate a tablespoon of sour cream.

Nutritions

Calories: 520 per serving
Protein: 22 g
Fats: 26 g
Carbs: 48 g

Variations

Substitute rice with quinoa for a healthier alternative.
Add cooked, shredded chicken or mushrooms to the filling for added protein and flavor.
Use savoy cabbage for a more tender texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a mixed green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious cheese sauce.
Complement with a glass of dry white wine for an elegant dining experience.

Best Places

The Cheese House - A cozy spot known for its gourmet cheese dishes. Location: 55 Gourmet Ave, London, UK.
Cheesy Delights Café - Offers a variety of cheese-infused meals. Location: 1200 Cheese Ln, Paris, France.
Cabbage Corner Bistro - Famous for its innovative cabbage and cheese creations. Location: 34 Leafy St, New York, USA.
Elegant Eats - Blends gourmet foods with traditional flavors. Location: 80 Culinary Blvd, Florence, Italy.
Savory Bakes - Known for its perfect pairings of wine and cheese dishes. Location: 91 Tasty Rd, Barcelona, Spain.
Epicurean Retreat - Offers a delightful ambience for cheese lovers. Location: 22 Taste St, Melbourne, Australia.
Gourmet Delicacies - A rustic spot perfect for cheese delicacies. Location: 10 Flavor Ave, Chicago, USA.
Culinary Haven - Expertly curated dishes focusing on cheese. Location: 77 Aroma Dr, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
The Cheese & Leaf - Specializes in cheese and vegetable-centric dishes. Location: 88 Gourmet St, Lisbon, Portugal.
Culinary Harmony - Beautifully blends international flavors. Location: 66 Harmony Blvd, Tokyo, Japan.