Involtini di Verza, a traditional Italian dish, transforms the humble cabbage into a culinary work of art. These delicate rolls are a harmony of tender cabbage leaves, lovingly wrapped around a savory filling of minced meat, Parmesan, and herbs, each bite bursting with rich, hearty flavors. The involtini are simmered in a fragrant tomato sauce, infusing them with depth and warmth. This dish is a celebration of Italian home cooking, offering a comforting embrace with every mouthful.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
Number of Servings and Ideal Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Ideal Serving Size: 2-3 involtini per person, served with a generous portion of sauce
Essential Nutritional Information
- Calories per Serving: Approx. 400 kcal
- Macronutrients:
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 22g (saturated: 8g)
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
Ingredients
- Large cabbage leaves: 12
- Ground beef: 500g
- Ground pork: 300g
- Onion (finely chopped): 150g
- Garlic cloves (minced): 3
- Cooked rice: 150g
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 50g
- Canned crushed tomatoes: 800g
- Fresh parsley (chopped): 30g
- Dried oregano: 5g
- Olive oil: 30ml
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Method of Preparation
- Cabbage Preparation: Blanch cabbage leaves in boiling water until pliable. Drain and set aside.
- Filling Preparation: Mix ground beef, pork, cooked rice, Parmesan, half the onion, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Roll Assembly: Place a portion of the filling on each cabbage leaf, roll tightly, and secure with a toothpick.
- Sauce Cooking: Sauté remaining onion and garlic in olive oil. Add crushed tomatoes and oregano, simmering for 10 minutes.
- Involtini Cooking: Place rolls in the sauce, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes.
- Finishing: Remove toothpicks before serving.
Proven Tips for Culinary Success
- Ensure the cabbage leaves are blanched until just soft to prevent tearing.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with a mix of mushrooms, lentils, and ricotta.
- Letting the involtini rest for a few minutes after cooking makes them easier to handle.
Anticipated FAQs
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, involtini can be refrigerated overnight and reheated.
- Is there a gluten-free option? Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or cooked quinoa.
- Can I freeze the cooked involtini? Yes, they freeze well in the sauce for up to 3 months.