Stuffed cabbage rolls are a beloved comfort food featuring tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of beef, rice, and aromatic spices, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This dish offers a comforting, wholesome meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
This post will guide you through preparing delicious stuffed cabbage rolls from scratch, covering the recipe, essential tips, ingredient variations, storage instructions, and ideal food pairings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Hearty Comfort Food: Provides warmth and satisfaction, perfect for chilly evenings.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps with ingredients commonly found in most kitchens.
- Versatile: Adaptable to various dietary preferences and can be prepared ahead.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike enjoy the delicious flavors.
- Great for Meal Prep: Freezes well for future meals or leftovers.
Ingredients:
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes (do not drain)
- 15 ounce can tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 1 pound ground beef (90% lean)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves (divided)
- 1 egg
- 1 head cabbage
- Cooking spray
Kitchen Equipment Needed:
- Large pot for boiling cabbage
- Baking dish
- Skillet or saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Spoon and spatula
Directions:
Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Cabbage: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head in the boiling water. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the outer leaves are softened. Remove cabbage from water and let cool slightly. Gently peel off 12 large leaves, being careful not to tear them.
Main Cooking Steps:
- Make Tomato Sauce: In a skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, brown sugar, and red wine vinegar. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, half of the chopped parsley, and egg. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble Cabbage Rolls: Place a cabbage leaf flat on a work surface. Add a scoop of the beef mixture (about 1/3 cup) onto the center of the leaf. Fold in the sides of the leaf and roll up tightly, tucking in the ends as you go. Repeat with remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
- Bake: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange cabbage rolls seam side down in the dish. Pour remaining tomato sauce over the rolls.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
Final Steps:
- Serve: Remove foil and sprinkle remaining chopped parsley over the cabbage rolls before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Crockpot Method: Layer assembled rolls in a slow cooker with tomato sauce and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, including the sauces, are gluten-free certified if needed.
Storing Leftovers:
- Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, gently warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Food and Drink Pairings:
- Side Dishes: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.
- Beverages: Pair with a glass of red wine such as Merlot or a light beer for a delightful meal.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I freeze stuffed cabbage rolls? Yes, you can freeze them after baking. Allow them to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done? The rolls are done when the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the filling reaches 160°F (71°C).
Call to Action:
Try this comforting stuffed cabbage rolls recipe for a delicious meal that will surely become a family favorite. Enjoy the blend of flavors and share your experience with us!