Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a comforting and hearty dish, featuring tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful filling of ground meat, rice, and seasonings, all simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce. This dish is popular in many cultures, from Eastern European variations to Mediterranean-inspired versions. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a satisfying meal that is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 1 large head of cabbage
- Cooking spray for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, brown sugar, red wine vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Immerse the whole cabbage head in boiling water and cook for 4-5 minutes until the leaves are pliable.
- Remove from water and carefully peel off 12 large leaves.
- Use a small knife to cut a V-shaped notch to remove the thick part of the cabbage rib.
Step 3: Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, beaten egg, and fresh parsley.
- Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls
- Lay each cabbage leaf on a flat surface.
- Place ⅓ cup of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf.
- Roll the cabbage leaf around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go.
- Repeat with the remaining meat and cabbage leaves.
Step 5: Bake the Cabbage Rolls
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Pour half of the tomato sauce into the bottom of the dish.
- Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Top with the remaining tomato sauce.
- Cover with foil and bake for 70-90 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the meat is fully cooked.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve warm with crusty bread or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Stuffed Cabbage Rolls:
- Use a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor.
- Freeze the cabbage overnight instead of boiling—it softens naturally.
- Add shredded carrots to the filling for a touch of sweetness.
- Pair with sour cream for a creamy contrast.
This dish is rich, comforting, and packed with flavor—perfect for a satisfying meal! 🥬🍅
Would you like variations or additional serving ideas? 😊