Bulgarian New Year's Savories

Bulgaria’s New Year includes these tasty tidbits which are served with the celebratory supper.  They also make interesting appetizers for other occasions.

1 ½ lbs. veal, minced
1 lb. pork sausage meat
1 onion, finely chopped
1 Tbsp. parsley, minced
½ cup rice, parboiled
2 Tbsp. tomato paste
2 cloves garlic, minced
Pepper and paprika
1 tsp. salt
10 slices bacon
Bacon rind (optional)
Sauerkraut leaves
½ cup cold water
½ cup sauerkraut juice

Mix the meats with onion, parsley, parboiled rice, tomato paste, garlic, pepper, paprika to taste, and salt.  Set aside.

In a non stick skillet, fry the bacon slices until translucent.  Prepare a casserole or Dutch oven by placing the bacon rind on the bottom and a few cabbage leaves over it.  Arrange the bacon slices over the top.

Preheat oven to 220 C.

Make the rolls by cutting the sauerkraut leaves into pieces 2 ½ inches by 2 ½ inches, removing any hard ribs. Place a small spoonful of prepared meat filling on each square, then roll tightly to make a small package.  Place them side by side, seam side down, on top of the bacon slices.  Cover with more leaves.

Pour in the water and sauerkraut juice.  Cover and bake for 1 hour or until very tender.  8-10 servings.