Cabbage Rolls

Cabbage Rolls

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Cabbage rolls are a beloved comfort food enjoyed in many cultures worldwide. This dish features tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a tasty filling. The filling is often a mix of ground meat, rice, and spices. It’s then simmered in a savory tomato sauce. Cabbage rolls are great for family dinners or meal prep. You can make traditional Eastern European ones or try your own twist.

Cabbage Rolls

Ingredients List

For the Cabbage Rolls:

  • 1 large head of cabbage

  • 1 pound ground beef or pork (or a mix)

  • 1 cup cooked rice

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 egg

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

For the Sauce:

  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon sugar

  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Timing

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

  • Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Step-by-step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully place the whole cabbage head into the boiling water and cook for about 5 minutes until the outer leaves become soft.

  2. Remove the cabbage and carefully peel off the softened leaves. Return the cabbage to the water if needed to loosen more leaves.

Step 2: Make the Filling

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

  1. Take a cabbage leaf and place about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture in the center.

  2. Fold in the sides of the leaf and roll it up tightly.

  3. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

  1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft.

  2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.

  3. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, sugar, basil, and red pepper flakes.

  4. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Cook the Cabbage Rolls

  1. Pour a small amount of sauce into a baking dish or a deep skillet.

  2. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish.

  3. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls.

  4. Cover with a lid or foil and bake at 350°F for 1 hour (or simmer on the stovetop over low heat for the same time).

Cabbage Rolls

Tips for Making It Perfect

  • Use savoy cabbage for an even more tender texture.

  • Freeze the cabbage head overnight instead of boiling it to soften the leaves.

  • Make sure the filling is not packed too tightly to avoid dense, tough rolls.

  • Let the rolls rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.

You Can Try These Different Variations

  • Vegetarian Cabbage Rolls: Swap out the meat for a mix of mushrooms, lentils, or quinoa.

  • Keto-Friendly Cabbage Rolls: Replace rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

  • Asian-Style Cabbage Rolls: Use ground chicken with soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil, then serve with a soy-based dipping sauce.

  • Stuffed Cabbage Soup: Instead of rolling, chop the cabbage and cook everything together in a pot for a deconstructed version.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 290 kcal

  • Protein: 18g

  • Carbohydrates: 28g

  • Fat: 12g

  • Fiber: 4g

  • Sugar: 8g

FAQs

How do I store leftover cabbage rolls?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I make cabbage rolls ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble them a day in advance and refrigerate. When ready to cook, just bake as directed.

What is the best way to reheat cabbage rolls?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes or microwave in 1-minute intervals until warm.

Conclusion

Cabbage rolls are a delicious, hearty meal that brings warmth and tradition to the table. Whether you make them classic, vegetarian, or with a unique twist, they are sure to be a family favorite. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a comforting dish that never goes out of style.