Savory Stuffed Cabbage Rolls A Heartwarming Dish

Savory Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: A Heartwarming Dish

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Stuffed cabbage rolls, a comforting and flavorful dish, bring together tender cabbage leaves enveloping a savory filling of ground meat, rice, and aromatic spices. This recipe combines traditional techniques with modern twists to create a satisfying meal perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. The rolls are simmered in a rich tomato sauce, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Enjoy them warm with a dollop of sour cream or fresh herbs for a delightful finish.

Ingredients:

For the Cabbage Rolls:

  • 1 large head of green cabbage
  • 1 pound 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 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Tomato Sauce:

  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Cabbage:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage head. Once boiling, submerge the cabbage in the water for about 5-7 minutes, until the outer leaves are tender. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cabbage to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, gently peel off 12-14 leaves for stuffing.
  2. Make the Filling:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, thyme, paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until well combined.
  3. Stuff the Cabbage Leaves:
    • Lay a cabbage leaf on a flat surface. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling at the base of the leaf, fold in the sides, and roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
  4. Prepare the Sauce:
    • In a separate bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
  5. Assemble the Dish:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce mixture on the bottom of a large baking dish. Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish, packing them closely together. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are well covered.
  6. Bake:
    • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, until the rolls are heated through and the flavors have melded. Remove the foil in the last 15 minutes of baking for a slightly caramelized top.
  7. Serve:
    • Let the cabbage rolls cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Enjoy your hearty and delicious stuffed cabbage rolls!

Conclusion:

This recipe for stuffed cabbage rolls is sure to become a family favorite. Packed with flavor and nutrition, these rolls are a wonderful way to enjoy a classic dish with a twist. Whether served for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight dinner, they are bound to warm hearts and satisfy appetites.

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