Traditional Romanian Cabbage Rolls (Sarmale în Dovleac)

Method

1. Blanch cabbage leaves in boiling water until tender, then set aside.
2. In a bowl, mix ground pork, rice, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Place a spoonful of the mixture in the center of each cabbage leaf, roll tightly, and secure with a toothpick.
4. In a large pot, sauté the cabbage rolls in oil until browned on all sides.
5. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and 1 cup water. Simmer covered for 1 hour.
6. Adjust seasoning and serve warm.
7. Check that the ground meat reaches 71°C (160°F) throughout before serving.