Ukrainian Beet Leaf Rolls Stuffed With Bread Recipe – European Special
Ukrainian beet leaf rolls, known as holubtsi z khlibnoho testu zapovnennya, offer a delightful variation on the classic stuffed cabbage rolls. Instead of meat or grains, these rolls are filled with a savory bread dough, creating a comforting and hearty dish. The beet leaves not only add a vibrant color but also impart a subtle earthy flavor that complements the soft bread filling. Traditionally, these rolls are baked and often served with a creamy dill sauce, making them a cherished part of Ukrainian cuisine.
- Prep Time30 min
- Cook Time1 hr
- Perform Time3 hr
- Total Time4 hr 30 min
For the Rolls:
- 10 large beet leaves (also known as beet greens)
- 2 cups bread crumbs (fresh or dried)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup grated cheese (like feta or mozzarella)
For the Sauce (optional):
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Prepare the Beet Leaves:
Wash and Trim: Rinse the beet leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Trim the stems if they’re too thick or tough.
Blanch: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Submerge the beet leaves for about 2-3 minutes until they soften. Remove and plunge them into ice water to stop cooking. Drain and pat dry.
Make the Filling:
Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
Mix Filling: In a bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic, bread crumbs, oregano, salt, pepper, and cheese (if using). Mix well until combined.
Assemble the Rolls:
Prepare the Leaves: Lay a beet leaf flat on a clean surface. Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling near the stem end.
Roll: Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the stem end to the tip. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
Cook the Rolls:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare Baking Dish: If using tomato sauce, spread a thin layer in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the rolls seam-side down in the dish.
Add Sauce: Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls, if desired. Cover with foil.
Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes for a bit of browning.
Serve:
Cool and Garnish: Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Recipe Notes:
Alternative Fillings: While this recipe uses bread dough, variations can include fillings like rice, buckwheat, or even meat, depending onbread dough,.
Leaf Preparation: Beet leaves should be blanched briefly to soften them, making them bread dough,
Serving Suggestions: These rolls are traditionally served with a bread dough,, enhancing their flavor profile.
