Description

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a hearty, classic dish that brings together tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory meat and rice mixture, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, combining wholesome ingredients and traditional flavors in every bite. Whether you’re familiar with this dish from childhood or trying it for the first time, you’ll love the flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth texture of these stuffed cabbage rolls. Best of all, they are surprisingly easy to make!

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cabbage
• 1 pound ground beef (or pork, or a mix)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth (or water)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon vinegar (optional)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the cabbage leaves
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Cut out the core of the cabbage and carefully place the whole head into the boiling water. Let it boil for about 5-8 minutes, or until the outer leaves start to soften and pull away easily. Remove the cabbage from the water and peel off about 12 large, tender leaves. Set the leaves aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the filling
In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef, 1 cup of cooked rice, 1 finely chopped onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Crack in 1 egg and add 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until they are well incorporated. This filling will be the heart of the cabbage rolls, providing a flavorful and hearty center.

Step 3: Stuff the cabbage leaves
Lay one cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface and place a spoonful of the meat and rice mixture in the center of the leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly, tucking in the edges as you go. Repeat this process with the remaining leaves and filling until all the cabbage rolls are assembled.

Step 4: Prepare the tomato sauce
In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the remaining chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Stir in 2 cups of tomato sauce, 1 cup of beef broth, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and, if desired, 1 teaspoon of vinegar for a slight tang. Bring the sauce to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Assemble the dish
In a large, deep pot or casserole dish, pour a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom. Place the cabbage rolls seam side down in the pot, fitting them snugly together. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the rolls, making sure they are fully covered with sauce.

Step 6: Simmer the cabbage rolls
Cover the pot with a lid and simmer the cabbage rolls over low heat for 45-60 minutes, or until the rolls are fully cooked and the cabbage is tender. The slow simmering process allows the flavors to develop and the rolls to absorb the rich tomato sauce.

Step 7: Serve
Once the cabbage rolls are cooked, remove them from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot, with extra sauce spooned over the top of each roll

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:
For extra flavor, try adding a handful of raisins or diced dried apricots to the meat and rice mixture before rolling the cabbage. This adds a subtle sweetness that complements the savory filling and rich tomato sauce. You can also add a splash of red wine to the tomato sauce for depth and complexity.

Conclusion:
Stuffed cabbage rolls are a timeless and satisfying dish that never fails to impress. The combination of tender cabbage, savory meat, and flavorful tomato sauce creates a comforting meal that will leave everyone at the table feeling satisfied. With its hearty ingredients and simple preparation, this recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Follow the steps and enjoy this classic dish with your loved ones!