Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls


These classic stuffed cabbage rolls are a comforting dish filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices. Wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and baked in a tangy tomato sauce, they are a perfect meal for family gatherings or cozy dinners. Enjoy the flavors of this traditional recipe that is sure to delight everyone at the table!

Ingredients

  • For the Cabbage Rolls:
  • 1 large head of green cabbage
  • 1 lb ground beef (or a mixture of beef and pork)
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • For the Tomato Sauce:
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, to taste)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cabbage:
  • Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage head.
  • Place the whole cabbage in the boiling water and cook for 2-3 minutes until the outer leaves start to soften.
  • Remove the cabbage from the pot and let it cool slightly. Gently peel off 12-16 leaves, returning the head to the pot if necessary to soften more leaves.
  1. Make the Filling:
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and parsley (if using). Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
  1. Assemble the Rolls:
  • Take a cabbage leaf and place about 1/4 cup of the filling at the base of the leaf. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the base to the top.
  • Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling, placing the rolled cabbage seam side down.
  1. Prepare the Sauce:
  • In a medium bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, brown sugar, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  1. Bake the Cabbage Rolls:
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom.
  • Arrange the cabbage rolls in the dish in a single layer, packing them snugly. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are well covered.
  1. Cook:
  • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
  1. Serve:
  • Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious stuffed cabbage rolls!

Feel free to adjust any ingredients or spices to suit your taste preferences!

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