Description
Delicious and hearty stuffed cabbage rolls filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and aromatic spices, all simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for a family dinner and combines tender cabbage leaves with a rich, homemade sauce for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cabbage Rolls
- 1 large head of green cabbage
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 oz tomato paste
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Sauce
- 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the cabbage leaves: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Core the cabbage and carefully separate the leaves. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2–3 minutes until softened. Drain and let cool.
- Make the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, onion, garlic, tomato paste, egg, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Assemble the rolls: Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling onto the base of each cabbage leaf. Roll tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
- Prepare the sauce: In a saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, broth, sugar, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
- Cook the cabbage rolls: Spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of a large pot or Dutch oven. Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down in a single layer. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are fully covered. Cover and simmer on low heat for 45 minutes to 1 hour until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
- Serve: Serve the cabbage rolls warm with crusty bread or mashed potatoes. Enjoy your comforting homemade stuffed cabbage rolls!
Notes
- Blanching the cabbage leaves softens them and makes rolling easier.
- Use extra sauce for dipping or serving on the side.
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or a vegetarian alternative.
- Make ahead and refrigerate the rolls before cooking to save prep time.
- Adding a dash of vinegar or lemon juice to the sauce can brighten the flavors.
