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1
I am using leftover Stove Top Pork flavored stuffing (cheating) for this meal. If you aren't using leftover stuffing, then you will first want to prepare the stuffing.
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2
For the Stuffing: Dice the Celery, Onion and Apple and toss into a skillet lightly coated with olive oil (or butter). Add the crushed Walnuts to the mixture and saute for about 5-7 minutes or until the celery and onion are soft. From here, follow the directions on the box (in the same skillet) to complete the stuffing. Allow to cool.
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3
Bring a large, wide saucepan of lightly salted water to a boil.
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4
Slice the bottom of cabbage core and gently separate the leaves. Use only the larger leaves, the smaller leaves are too difficult to roll. Rinse leaves then place in the boiling water. Cook for 2 to 4 minutes or until softened; drain. Allow to cool enough you can handle the leaves comfortably.
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5
Making a small cut at the base of a leaf (approx 2 inches) may help make rolling a little easier for you. Place an egg-sized dollop of the stuffing in the center of the leaf. (If you are doing this with leftover turkey dressing, consider adding a thin slice of cranberry.) Roll and secure with toothpick (if necessary). Place leaf-tip side down in a large skillet.
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6
You need to add 3/4 cup of liquid to the skillet, which will be brought to a boil, then heat reduced to allow the rolls to simmer for about 40 minutes or until cabbage is completely limp. Show some creativity with your choice of liquid. You can use water if you do not wish to introduce other flavors. But, if you would like to add a punch to the flavor, use beef or chicken broth -- maybe even a portion of a sausage gravy packet with the water to add a peppery-sausage flavor. Its up to you! Your choice should be based on the type of stuffing you have made as well as what type of meat you will be serving.
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7
For this meal, I will be serving the cabbage rolls on a bed of garlic mashed potatoes along side slices of ham, so I am using lightly salted water with a couple tablespoons of apricot jam and same amount of cream of mushroom soup. This flavor will pair quite nicely with the ham (for which I am also using apricot jam with the natural juices for basting) and produce that lovely savory/sweet combination I so love.
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8
You may consider serving these covered with gravy. For this meal, I poured off a little more than half of the remaining liquid and added more of the cream of mushroom soup for a smooth gravy that will pair well with both the cabbage rolls and the mashed potatoes.
