Amazing Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

There’s something truly heartwarming about a well-made stuffed cabbage roll. This recipe, beloved for over 20 years, is a testament to the timeless appeal of simple, delicious comfort food. Perfect for a slow cooker or baked in the oven, these cabbage rolls are always a crowd-pleaser, drawing compliments with every serving. By parboiling the cabbage and adding a touch of tomato juice to the meat mixture, this dish pays homage to a beloved family tradition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is cherished for its straightforward approach and the rich, savory flavors it delivers. The cabbage rolls are wrapped in layers of love, ensuring they remain moist and packed with flavor. Plus, the homemade sauce elevates the dish, making it feel extra special. Whether you serve it with noodles or enjoy it on its own, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for parboiling cabbage
• Baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Spoon or spatula for mixing
• Aluminum foil

Ingredients

Cabbage Rolls

• 1 large head green cabbage, about 2 to 2¼ pounds
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 eggs (optional)
• 1 medium onion, grated or minced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup raw long-grain white rice

Tomato Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter or vegetable oil
• 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped (medium dice)
• 2 15-ounce cans tomato sauce or one 32-ounce can whole tomatoes, pureed
• Juice of one lemon
• 1/3 to 3/4 cup light brown sugar (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup golden raisins (optional)
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Remove the core from the cabbage and carefully peel away the large outer leaves.
3. Parboil the cabbage leaves in a large pot of boiling water until they are pliable, about 2-3 minutes per leaf. Set aside to cool.
4. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs (if using), grated onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and rice. Mix until well combined.
5. Place a small amount of the meat mixture onto each cabbage leaf and roll tightly, tucking in the sides as you go.
6. Line a baking dish with some of the extra cabbage leaves and place the rolls seam-side down in the dish.
7. In a saucepan, heat the butter or oil and sauté the garlic and onion until soft.
8. Add the tomato sauce, lemon juice, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and raisins (if using). Simmer for 10 minutes, then pour over the cabbage rolls.
9. Cover the rolls with more cabbage leaves and then cover the dish with foil.
10. Bake for 1½ to 2 hours, or until the meat is fully cooked and the flavors have melded.
11. Sprinkle with parsley before serving.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cabbage leaves are pliable enough to roll without tearing by parboiling them adequately.
• Don’t skip lining the baking dish with cabbage leaves to prevent burning.
• Double the sauce if you prefer extra to serve with noodles.

Additional Tips or Variations

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative to beef.
• Consider adding chopped mushrooms to the meat mixture for added depth of flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 350
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make these cabbage rolls ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and bake them just before serving.

Q: Can I freeze these cabbage rolls?

A: Yes, these freeze well. Just make sure to cool them completely before freezing. Reheat them in the oven or microwave.

Q: What can I serve with stuffed cabbage rolls?

A: They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, noodles, or a simple green salad.

Conclusion

These amazing stuffed cabbage rolls are a delightful dish that brings both comfort and flavor to the table. Easy to make and satisfying to eat, they’re sure to become a staple in your home. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out for you. We’d love to hear about your experience and any personal touches you might add!