by: AdminPosted on:

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a classic dish found in various cuisines around the world, including Eastern European, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern cooking. They typically consist of cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of meat, rice, and seasonings, which are then rolled, cooked, and often served with a sauce. Here’s a general recipe for stuffed cabbage rolls:

Ingredients:

  • For the filling:
    • 1 lb ground beef (or pork, chicken, or a combination)
    • 1/2 cup uncooked rice (or cooked for softer filling)
    • 1 small onion, finely chopped
    • 2 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1 egg
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 1 tsp paprika
    • 1 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
  • For the cabbage:
    • 1 large head of green cabbage
    • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • For the sauce:
    • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
    • 1 cup chicken or beef broth
    • 1 tbsp tomato paste
    • 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
    • 1 tsp vinegar or lemon juice (optional for tang)
    • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the cabbage:
    • Boil a large pot of water. Core the cabbage and carefully place it in the boiling water. As the leaves soften (about 2-3 minutes), gently peel them off and set aside. Continue until you have 10-12 large leaves. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
    • If the cabbage leaves are too stiff, you can boil them for a bit longer until pliable.
  2. Prepare the filling:
    • In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, rice, onion, garlic, egg, paprika, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
  3. Assemble the cabbage rolls:
    • Place a cabbage leaf on a flat surface, and add about 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of each leaf. Fold in the sides and roll tightly, tucking the ends under so the filling doesn’t escape during cooking.
  4. Cook the cabbage rolls:
    • In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the pot, arranging them tightly together.
    • Pour the crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce, broth, tomato paste, and any remaining seasonings over the cabbage rolls.
    • Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat, cover, and cook gently for about 1 to 1.5 hours, until the rolls are tender and cooked through.
  5. Serve:
    • Serve the stuffed cabbage rolls with extra sauce on top. Some like to add sour cream or fresh herbs for garnish.

This dish is perfect when served with mashed potatoes, bread, or even as a stand-alone meal! Let me know if you’d like any variations or additional tips!