Egyptian Cabbage Rolls – Recipe for Egyptian Cabbage Rolls – How to Prepare Egyptian Cabbage Rolls

Egyptian Cabbage Rolls – Recipe for Egyptian Cabbage Rolls – How to Prepare Egyptian Cabbage Rolls

Egyptian cabbage rolls (also known as "karnab" or "mahshee") are a flavorful and nutritious dish. It’s relatively easy to make, requiring about 75 minutes for preparation and cooking. This recipe will provide ingredients for six people, and we hope you enjoy this distinctive dish from Egyptian cuisine.

Ingredients for Egyptian Cabbage Rolls:

 

• 1 large head of cabbage (leaves separated).
• 2 cups of rice.
• 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped.
• 1 bunch of chopped parsley.
• 1 bunch of chopped dill.
• 1 bunch of chopped cilantro.
• 3 medium-sized tomatoes, finely chopped.
• 3 tablespoons of tomato paste.
• 1 clove of crushed garlic.
• 2 chicken broth cubes.
• Salt to taste.
• Black pepper to taste.
• 1 tablespoon of cumin.
• 5 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice.
• Mixed spices (to taste).

How to Prepare Egyptian Cabbage Rolls:

1. Preparing the Filling:

   • In a medium-sized bowl, mix the rice with half of the chopped onions, dill, parsley, and cilantro. Stir until well combined.
   • Add black pepper, salt, and mixed spices, and mix everything together thoroughly. Set aside.

2. Rolling the Cabbage:

   • Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a table or a hard surface.
   • Place a small amount of the rice mixture in the center of the cabbage leaf, then fold the edges inward and roll it tightly into a small "roll" shape.
   • Repeat this process until all the rice mixture and cabbage leaves are used.
   • Place the rolled cabbage leaves in a medium-sized pot, stacking them neatly.

3. Making the Sauce:

   • In a separate pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat.
   • Add the remaining chopped onions and the crushed garlic, stirring occasionally until softened.
   • Add the tomato paste, chopped tomatoes, cumin, salt, and chicken broth cubes. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.

4. Cooking the Cabbage Rolls:

   • Once the sauce is ready, pour it over the cabbage rolls in the pot, making sure the rolls are fully submerged in the liquid.
   • Place the pot over medium heat, and when it begins to boil, reduce the heat to low.
   • Pour the fresh lemon juice over the top and add some mint leaves if desired. Cover the pot and allow the rolls to simmer for approximately 50 minutes until fully cooked.

5. Serving:

   • Once the cabbage rolls are cooked and the sauce has thickened, remove them from the heat.
   • Serve the Egyptian cabbage rolls hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy the delightful flavors of Egyptian Cabbage Rolls with your family or guests! Bon appétit!