Dive into the heart of Finnish cuisine with Kaalikääryleet, a traditional dish bursting with flavor and cultural significance. Known for its blend of hearty ingredients and meticulous preparation, Kaalikääryleet showcases the essence of Finnish culinary heritage. This dish features cabbage leaves enveloping a savory filling of minced meat, rice, and aromatic spices, simmered to perfection. Explore the rich history and regional variations of Kaalikääryleet, and discover the warmth and comfort it brings to Finnish tables. Whether enjoyed as a festive treat or a cozy family meal, Kaalikääryleet invites you on a culinary journey through the enchanting flavors of Finland.

Ingredients:

• 1 large cabbage head
• 500g ground beef (or a mixture of beef and pork)
• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 egg
• 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
• Lingonberry sauce, for serving

Instructions:

1- Core the cabbage head and carefully remove the leaves one by one, trying to keep them intact. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch the cabbage leaves for a few minutes until they are pliable. Remove them from the water and set aside to cool.

2- In a bowl, combine the ground beef, uncooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, allspice, nutmeg, and egg. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

3- Take one cabbage leaf and place a spoonful of the meat and rice mixture in the center. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling and roll it up tightly, similar to a burrito. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.

4- Arrange the cabbage rolls seam side down in a large pot. Pour the beef or vegetable broth over the cabbage rolls, ensuring they are mostly submerged.

5- Bring the pot to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the cabbage rolls cook for about 45-60 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the meat is tender.

6- Once cooked, remove the cabbage rolls from the pot and serve them hot with lingonberry sauce on the side.

Enjoy your delicious Finnish Kaalikääryleet!

Nutritional Values :

Cabbage (1 large head):

• Calories: 218
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 20g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 1g

benefits

• Rich in fiber, which supports digestive health and promotes satiety.
• High in vitamin C, an antioxidant that boosts immune function and collagen production for healthy skin.
• Contains vitamin K, important for bone health and blood clotting.

Ground Beef (500g):

• Calories: 1100
• Protein: 100g
• Fat: 75g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits

• Excellent source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Provides iron, which is necessary for transporting oxygen in the blood and preventing anemia.
• Contains vitamin B12, important for nerve function and DNA synthesis.

Rice (1 cup uncooked):

• Calories: 205
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 0.5g

benefits

• High in carbohydrates, providing energy for the body.
• Contains small amounts of protein, contributing to muscle repair and growth.
• Provides some essential vitamins and minerals like manganese, which supports metabolism and bone health.

Onion (1 medium):

• Calories: 44
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits

• Rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids and quercetin, which have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
• Contains prebiotic fibers that support gut health by feeding beneficial gut bacteria.
• Provides vitamin C, essential for immune function and collagen production.

Egg (1 large):

• Calories: 72
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 0.4g

benefits

• Excellent source of high-quality protein, containing all essential amino acids needed for muscle repair and growth.
• Rich in choline, important for brain health and development.
• Provides essential vitamins such as vitamin B12, riboflavin, and vitamin D.

Lingonberry Sauce (1 serving):

• Calories: 50
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 8g
• Fat: 0g

benefits

• Packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits.
• Contains vitamin C, supporting immune function and skin health.
• Provides dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and aiding in weight management.

These values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the specific type and brand of ingredients used and any variations in preparation methods.