Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a hearty and comforting dish made by wrapping a meat and rice filling in cabbage leaves, then simmering or baking them in a savory tomato-based sauce. They are popular in many cultures, including Eastern European, Middle Eastern, and Asian cuisines. Here’s a classic version of the dish:

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Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Ingredients:

For the cabbage rolls:

• 1 large head of green cabbage

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

• 1 cup cooked white rice

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 egg

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tsp paprika (optional)

For the sauce:

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp vinegar (white or apple cider)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: pinch of chili flakes or Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the cabbage:

   • Core the cabbage and gently peel off large leaves.

   • Boil the leaves in salted water for 2–3 minutes until pliable. Drain and let cool.

2. Make the filling:

   • In a bowl, mix ground meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika.

3. Assemble the rolls:

   • Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling on a cabbage leaf.

   • Fold in sides and roll up tightly like a burrito.

   • Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

4. Prepare the sauce:

   • In a saucepan, sauté chopped onion and garlic in olive oil until soft.

   • Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, vinegar, salt, and pepper.

   • Simmer for 10–15 minutes.

5. Cook the rolls:

   • Place a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of a baking dish or Dutch oven.

   • Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down.

   • Pour remaining sauce over the rolls.

   • Cover tightly with foil or a lid.

   • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1.5 to 2 hours or simmer gently on the stovetop.

6. Serve:

   • Let them rest for 10 minutes before serving.

   • Serve with sour cream and fresh herbs if desired.

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Would you like a version tailored for a specific cuisine like Polish, Lebanese, or vegetarian?