Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a comforting, flavorful dish made by wrapping cabbage leaves around a filling of ground meat, rice, and seasonings, then simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Here’s a classic recipe that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Rolls:
- 1 large head of 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 salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp ground cumin (optional)
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cabbage:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove 12-14 large outer leaves from the cabbage head.
- Blanch the cabbage leaves by placing them in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes, just until softened. Remove and drain on paper towels. Set aside.
- If the center of the cabbage is thick, carefully shave off the thick part of the stem so the leaves can fold easily.
- Make the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, uncooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and cumin (if using). Mix well to combine.
- Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat while you assemble the rolls.
- Assemble the Cabbage Rolls:
- Lay a cabbage leaf on a flat surface. Place about ¼ cup of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling and roll it up tightly, like a burrito. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
- Cook the Cabbage Rolls:
- Pour a thin layer of the tomato sauce into a large, deep baking dish or casserole dish.
- Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the rolls, making sure they are completely covered.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the rice is cooked.
- Serve:
- Remove the rolls from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes. Serve the stuffed cabbage rolls with extra tomato sauce spooned over the top.
Enjoy Your Stuffed Cabbage Rolls!
These hearty cabbage rolls are delicious served with mashed potatoes or crusty bread, making for a satisfying meal full of rich flavors and comfort.
