Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Introduction

These Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a comforting and flavorful dish made with tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices, then simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners and special occasions!

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 1 large head of green cabbage
• 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and submerge the entire head in the boiling water for 3-5 minutes to soften the leaves.
3. Remove the cabbage and let it cool. Gently peel off about 12-15 large leaves.
4. Use a sharp knife to trim the thick center vein of each leaf for easier rolling.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, salt, black pepper, paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper.
2. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

1. Take one cabbage leaf and place 2-3 tablespoons of the filling near the base.
2. Fold in the sides and roll tightly, like a burrito.
3. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, sugar, basil, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Cook the Cabbage Rolls

1. Pour a small amount of the tomato sauce into the bottom of a large baking dish or Dutch oven.
2. Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls in a single layer.
3. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls.
4. Cover with a lid or foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1.5 hours.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
• Pair with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
• A dollop of sour cream on top adds extra richness.

Tips for the Best Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

• For extra softness, let the cabbage sit in the freezer overnight before boiling.
• Use a mix of beef and pork for added flavor.
• Make ahead: Assemble the rolls and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Slow Cooker Option: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 20 minutes, or microwave until heated through.

These Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a hearty, satisfying dish full of comforting flavors. Enjoy! 🥬🍽️