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Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Cabbage Rolls Recipe
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A simple and delicious cabbage rolls recipe featuring tender cabbage leaves filled with savory ground meat, rice, and aromatic seasonings. This classic comfort food is easy to prepare, nutritious, and perfect for cozy dinners or batch cooking, offering a versatile dish that can be customized to suit any taste or dietary preference.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cabbage Rolls

  • 10–12 large fresh cabbage leaves
  • 1 lb ground meat (beef, pork, turkey, or a mixture)
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried herbs (such as parsley, dill, or a mix)

For the Sauce

  • 2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes

Optional Extras

  • Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)
  • Chili flakes or hot sauce (for a spicy kick)
  • Shredded cheese (to add inside rolls or on top before baking)
  • Alternative grains (quinoa or bulgur instead of rice)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves: Bring a large pot of water to boil. Carefully separate cabbage leaves and trim the thick vein at the base for easier rolling. Blanch the leaves in the boiling water for about 2 minutes until pliable. Drain and let cool.
  2. Prepare the Filling: Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and garlic until translucent and fragrant. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
  3. Assemble the Rolls: Lay a cabbage leaf flat. Place a spoonful of filling near the base of the leaf, fold in the sides, and roll tightly to enclose the filling. Repeat until all filling or leaves are used.
  4. Cook the Cabbage Rolls: Lightly grease a baking dish and arrange the rolls seam side down. Pour tomato sauce evenly over the rolls. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes until cabbage is tender and filling is cooked through.
  5. Serve Warm: Remove from oven and let the rolls rest for a few minutes. Garnish as desired and serve with preferred sides for a cozy meal.

Notes

  • Use fresh, firm cabbage leaves to prevent tearing while rolling.
  • Do not overstuff the rolls to avoid bursting during cooking.
  • Blanch cabbage leaves quickly to soften without wilting.
  • Let the rolls rest after baking to allow flavors to meld.
  • For extra moisture and taste, use tomato sauce both inside filling and on top.

Nutrition

Keywords: cabbage rolls, stuffed cabbage, comfort food, ground meat recipe, gluten free, baked cabbage rolls, cozy dinner

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