Here’s a classic Cabbage Rolls recipe, filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices, all wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce. These hearty rolls are perfect for a cozy dinner!
Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or wild rice works)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano or parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing the onion)
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (to balance acidity)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp vinegar (optional, for a slight tang)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cabbage:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully cut the core out of the cabbage.
- Gently place the whole head of cabbage into the boiling water and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the leaves start to soften. (You can also blanch individual leaves if you prefer.)
- Use tongs to remove the cabbage and let it cool enough to handle. Carefully peel off 12-14 large leaves, cutting off the tough, thick part of the stem from each leaf so it’s easier to roll.
2. Make the Filling:
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, egg, sautéed onion, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.
3. Assemble the Cabbage Rolls:
- Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Place about 2-3 tbsp of filling in the center of the leaf.
- Fold in the sides of the cabbage leaf over the filling, then roll it tightly from the bottom to the top, like a burrito. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
4. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
- In a bowl, combine the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
- If you like a slightly tangy sauce, you can add vinegar to the sauce for a little extra zing.
5. Cook the Cabbage Rolls:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, spread a small amount of tomato sauce on the bottom of the pot.
- Arrange the cabbage rolls tightly in the pot, seam side down. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the rolls, covering them completely.
- Cover the pot with a lid and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook on low heat for about 45-60 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through. Check occasionally to make sure the rolls stay covered with sauce and add a little water if needed to prevent burning.
6. Serve:
- Once the cabbage rolls are tender and fully cooked, remove from heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the cabbage rolls with a spoonful of the tomato sauce from the pot on top. You can garnish with a little fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Tips & Variations:
- For a Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika to the sauce for a deeper, smoky taste.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for a combination of cooked quinoa, lentils, and finely chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- Freezing: These cabbage rolls freeze well. You can freeze them either before or after cooking. Just let them cool completely and store in an airtight container. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or simmer on the stovetop.
These Cabbage Rolls are comforting, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients. The tender cabbage, savory meat filling, and rich tomato sauce make for a delicious, hearty meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers the next day!