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Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Cabbage Rolls Recipe

A simple and delicious Cabbage Rolls recipe perfect for family meals. Tender cabbage leaves are stuffed with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and aromatic herbs, then baked in a flavorful tomato sauce. This hearty and comforting dish is easy to make, customizable to various dietary needs, and ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cabbage Rolls

  • 1 large head green cabbage (fresh and firm leaves)
  • 1/2 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 pound ground pork
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Preferred spices (e.g., paprika, dried herbs), to taste

For the Sauce

  • 2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Sour cream
  • Grated cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves: Remove the core from the cabbage and carefully peel off about 12 large leaves. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes or until flexible, then drain and set aside to cool. This makes the leaves pliable and easy to roll without tearing.
  2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and pork with cooked rice, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, salt, pepper, and any preferred spices. Mix thoroughly so each bite is packed with flavor.
  3. Roll the Cabbage: Lay one cabbage leaf flat and place a spoonful of filling near the base. Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly from the base towards the top, securing the filling inside. Arrange each roll seam-side down in a baking dish.
  4. Add Sauce and Bake: Pour tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes evenly over the cabbage rolls. Cover the dish tightly with foil to keep moisture in. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 to 1.5 hours until the filling is cooked through and the cabbage is tender.
  5. Serve Warm and Enjoy: Once baked, let the rolls rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes them easier to handle.

Notes

  • Use fresh cabbage leaves for less cracking and better taste.
  • Avoid overfilling the rolls to prevent tearing and ensure even cooking.
  • Cook rice fully before mixing for better flavor absorption and cohesive filling.
  • Keep rolls snug in the baking dish to prevent unraveling during baking.
  • Cover the dish tightly with foil to retain moisture and keep rolls tender.

Nutrition

Keywords: cabbage rolls, stuffed cabbage, baked cabbage, comfort food, family meal, gluten free, homemade rolls