Ukrainian Lazy Cabbage Rolls

Instructions

Wash the rice well in a sieve until the water comes off clear. Add the rice to the boiling water along with the salt and butter. Bring it to a brisk boil, stir, and let it cook for 1 minute. Lower the heat to simmer, cover the rice tightly, and let it cook for 30 minutes without removing the cover or stirring it. If processed rice is used, follow the directions on the package.

Cook the onion in the butter until tender. Add the cabbage and continue cooking just enough to wilt it. Mix in 1/2 cup of the tomato juice and reserve the rest for later use. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Arrange the rice and cabbage in alternate layers in a buttered baking dish. Pour in the tomato juice and top with the buttered bread crumbs. Cover and bake the holubtsi in a moderate oven 350 degrees F. for 45 minutes. Serve hot with a meat course.

VARIATION of Linyvi Holubtsi:

Replace the cabbage with chopped tender beet tops or 2 cups of sauerkraut. Some sour cream may be used as part of the liquid. Chopped mushrooms or chopped ham will give an interesting variation.

Buttered bread Crumbs:

3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons dry bread crumbs

Melt the butter over a low heat until it bubbles and becomes a golden brown color. Add the bread crumbs and stir constantly until they are lightly toasted. Use as a dressing or topping.

Author's Comments

A popular "quickie" for busy or lazy days. This dish may be prepared in advance and popped into the oven when needed.

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