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Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Cabbage Rolls Recipe
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This classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe features tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling of ground meat, rice, onions, and herbs, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce. It’s a comforting, homemade meal perfect for cozy dinners and can be easily customized for dietary preferences or made ahead to save time.

Ingredients

Scale

Cabbage and Sauce

  • 1 large green cabbage (about 2–3 pounds), leaves separated
  • 2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Filling

  • 1 pound ground beef or pork (or a mix)
  • 1 cup cooked rice (preferably leftover, cold)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the outer cabbage leaves and blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they become soft and pliable. Drain the leaves and set them aside to cool. Trim the thick vein at the base of each leaf if needed to make rolling easier.
  2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, paprika, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  3. Roll the Cabbage: Lay a softened cabbage leaf flat on a clean work surface. Place a generous spoonful of the filling near the base (core end) of the leaf. Fold the sides inward over the filling, then roll tightly from the stem toward the tip to enclose the filling completely. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
  4. Assemble and Cook: Heat olive oil or butter in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the pan in a single layer. Pour the tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes evenly over the rolls, ensuring they are covered. Cover the pan with a lid and simmer gently over low heat for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the meat is fully cooked and flavors meld.

Notes

  • Choose firm, fresh cabbage heads with large leaves for easier rolling.
  • Do not overfill the cabbage leaves; fill tight but leave space to avoid tearing.
  • Simmer the rolls gently over low heat to keep them tender and develop deep flavor.
  • Use leftover cooked rice that is cold to prevent a mushy filling texture.
  • This recipe freezes well—prepare a double batch and freeze extras for convenient future meals.

Nutrition

Keywords: cabbage rolls, comfort food, stuffed cabbage, homemade dinner, classic recipe, ground meat, tomato sauce

Find it online: https://recipesbykaeli.com/cabbage-rolls-recipe/