Stuffed Cabbages Rolls

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe: A Hearty, Classic Comfort Dish

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a classic comfort food in many cultures, offering a delicious combination of tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of seasoned meat and rice, all cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce. This dish is hearty, nutritious, and perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create this traditional meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 1 large head of green cabbage
• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• ½ cup uncooked white rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup water or chicken broth (for thinning the sauce)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

1. Boil the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Remove the core from the cabbage and carefully place the whole head into the boiling water. Boil for 5-7 minutes until the outer leaves become pliable. Remove the cabbage from the water and allow it to cool slightly.
2. Separate the Leaves: Gently peel off about 12 large, intact leaves. You may need to return the cabbage to the boiling water for a few more minutes if the inner leaves are still too firm. Pat the leaves dry and trim the thick vein at the base of each leaf with a knife to make rolling easier.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Cook the Rice: If using uncooked rice, cook it according to the package instructions and let it cool slightly.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and parsley. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to combine everything thoroughly.

Step 3: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

1. Stuff the Cabbage Leaves: Place about ¼ cup of the meat mixture in the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold in the sides, then roll the leaf up tightly, starting from the base and rolling towards the top like a burrito. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
2. Layer in the Pan: Lightly grease a large baking dish or Dutch oven. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish, packing them snugly.

Step 4: Make the Tomato Sauce

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar (if using), dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add water or broth to thin the sauce slightly if it seems too thick. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Bake the Cabbage Rolls

1. Pour the Sauce Over the Rolls: Pour the prepared tomato sauce evenly over the stuffed cabbage rolls in the baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with foil or a lid.
2. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cabbage rolls for 1 ½ to 2 hours, until the cabbage is tender and the meat is cooked through.
3. Baste (Optional): Halfway through baking, you can baste the rolls with some of the tomato sauce from the pan to keep them moist.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve: Once baked, remove the cabbage rolls from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor, if desired.
2. Pair with Sides: Serve the cabbage rolls with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Choosing the Cabbage: Use a large, firm head of green cabbage for best results. The leaves should be big enough to wrap around the filling.
• Don’t Overstuff the Leaves: Be sure to place a manageable amount of filling in each cabbage leaf so it can be rolled tightly without tearing.
• Simmering the Sauce: Take the time to simmer the tomato sauce to develop a rich, deep flavor that complements the cabbage rolls perfectly.
• Use Cooked Rice: It’s important to use cooked rice in the filling to ensure even cooking. Uncooked rice can absorb too much moisture and affect the texture of the filling.

Variations

1. Hungarian Style Stuffed Cabbage: Use a mix of pork and beef for the filling and add sauerkraut to the sauce for a tangy, traditional Hungarian twist.
2. Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage: Substitute the meat with a mixture of cooked lentils, mushrooms, or tofu for a plant-based version. You can also add quinoa for extra texture.
3. Polish Golabki: In this Polish variation, the rolls are often served with a dollop of sour cream and sometimes cooked in a broth-based sauce instead of tomato.

FAQs

Can I Make Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Ahead of Time?

Yes! Stuffed cabbage rolls can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze them (before or after baking) for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, bake at 350°F for about 2 ½ to 3 hours, or until heated through.

How Long Do Leftover Cabbage Rolls Last?

Leftover cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can I Freeze Cabbage Rolls?

Yes! Cabbage rolls freeze well. After assembling or baking, let the rolls cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 18g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fiber: 4g

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Stuffed cabbage rolls are a timeless, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful filling and smothered in rich tomato sauce, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, these cabbage rolls are always a crowd-pleaser!