MEMORIES OF MACEDONIA ~ PRISHENA ZELKA / Пржена зелка (Macedonian Fried Cabbage)

minced meat

🥗Healthier: lean turkey

💰Cheaper: ground pork

Lean turkey reduces fat content while ground pork is often less expensive.

rice

🥗Healthier: quinoa

💰Cheaper: bulgur

Quinoa offers more protein, while bulgur is a budget-friendly alternative.

tomato paste

🥗Healthier: pureed tomatoes

💰Cheaper: canned tomatoes

Pureed tomatoes are lower in sodium, while canned tomatoes are often cheaper.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Olive oil is healthier, while canola oil is a cost-effective substitute.

Remove the core from the cabbage and boil the whole head until leaves are tender, about 10-15 minutes.

Carefully peel off the leaves and set aside to cool.

In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add grated carrot and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened.

Mix minced meat, cooked rice, sautéed onion and carrot, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

Take a cabbage leaf, place a spoonful of filling at the base, and roll tightly, tucking in the sides.

Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

In a large pot, layer any leftover cabbage leaves at the bottom, then arrange the stuffed rolls on top.

Add broth to cover the rolls and season with bay leaves, garlic, and lemon juice.

Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 45 minutes until cooked through.

Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: