These hearty stuffed cabbage rolls are a classic comfort food, featuring a savory filling of ground meat, rice, and seasonings, all wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and simmered in a tangy tomato sauce. The result is a warm, flavorful dish that’s perfect for family meals or gatherings.
Ingredients:
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 2 heads of cabbage
- 2 lbs ground meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped
- 2 cups diced onion
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce (mixed into the meat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 1 15-ounce can of tomato sauce
- 1 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cabbage:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Place one head of cabbage in the water and cook for a few minutes until the leaves are pliable.
- Remove from the water and peel off the leaves.
- Trim the thick vein from the bottom of each leaf for easier rolling.
- Make the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, diced onions, 1/4 cup tomato sauce, and salt and pepper.
- Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated.
- Assemble the Cabbage Rolls:
- Place a portion of the filling (about the size of a sausage) onto the center of each cabbage leaf.
- Fold in the sides and roll up the leaf, ensuring the filling is enclosed.
- Place the roll seam-side down in a casserole dish. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Spread a small amount of tomato sauce on the bottom of the casserole dish.
- Optionally, lay a few spare cabbage leaves over the sauce to prevent the rolls from sticking or burning.
- Cook the Rolls:
- Pour the crushed tomatoes over the cabbage rolls, ensuring they are well-covered.
- Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 75 minutes.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue baking for another 90 minutes, until the cabbage is tender. Baste the rolls with the sauce every hour to keep them moist and flavorful.
- Serve:
- Carefully remove the cabbage rolls from the dish and place them on a serving platter.
- Spoon some of the cooking sauce over the top.
- Serve warm with extra tomato sauce on the side if desired.
Enjoy your delicious homemade stuffed cabbage rolls, perfect for a filling and comforting meal!