Here’s a Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe for you!
Ingredients:
For the Cabbage Rolls:
• 1 large green cabbage
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef & pork)
• ½ cup cooked rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
For the Tomato Sauce:
• 2 cups crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Carefully remove the core of the cabbage and place the whole head in boiling water.
3. Boil for about 5 minutes, then gently peel off the softened outer leaves. Continue until you have about 12 large leaves. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Filling
1. In a bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Mix well.
Step 3: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls
1. Lay a cabbage leaf flat and place about 2 tablespoons of filling near the base.
2. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly, like a burrito. Repeat with remaining leaves.
Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
2. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, sugar, salt, pepper, and oregano. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Cabbage Rolls
1. Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of a large pot or baking dish.
2. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down. Pour the remaining sauce over them.
3. Cover and simmer on low heat for 1 to 1.5 hours (or bake at 350°F/175°C for the same time).
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with a dollop of sour cream or fresh parsley on top!
This dish is hearty, comforting, and perfect for any occasion. Let me know if you try it! 😊