Description
Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls made with ground beef, cooked rice, and aromatic herbs, simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for a family dinner, combining tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful meat and rice filling, slow-cooked to perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cabbage Rolls
- 1 large head of green cabbage
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 oz tomato paste
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Sauce
- 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage Leaves: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Core the cabbage and carefully separate the leaves. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes until softened, then drain and let cool to handle.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, lightly beaten egg, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Assemble the Rolls: Place 2 to 3 tablespoons of the filling onto the base of each cabbage leaf. Roll the leaf tightly around the filling, tucking in the sides to create a neat package. Repeat the process with the remaining leaves and filling.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the crushed tomatoes, beef or vegetable broth, sugar, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the mixture over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
- Arrange and Cook: Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce in the bottom of a large pot or Dutch oven. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a single layer. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Simmer the Rolls: Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
- Serving: Serve the stuffed cabbage rolls warm, accompanied by crusty bread or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. Enjoy the comforting flavors!
Notes
- Blanching the cabbage leaves softens them, making them easier to roll without tearing.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or pork for variation.
- For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with lentils or cooked mushrooms.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to the sauce can enhance its brightness.
