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Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
The first step in making cabbage rolls is to prepare the cabbage leaves. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully cut out the core of the cabbage and place the whole head in the boiling water. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the outer leaves become soft and pliable. Remove the cabbage from the pot and carefully peel off the leaves, being sure to remove any tough veins from the center of each leaf. Set the leaves aside to cool. You will need about 12-15 leaves, depending on the size of the cabbage.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
While the cabbage is cooling, prepare the filling for the rolls. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or beef and pork mix), cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Mix everything together until well combined. You can add fresh parsley at this stage for extra flavor, if desired.
Step 3: Roll the Cabbage
Take one cabbage leaf at a time and place it flat on a clean surface. Trim any hard, thick parts of the stem to make it easier to roll. Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of the leaf. Fold in the sides of the leaf and then roll it tightly from the base to the tip. Repeat this process for all the cabbage leaves and filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, brown sugar (if using), basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to create a flavorful tomato sauce. This will be poured over the cabbage rolls while they bake, infusing them with a rich, tangy flavor.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
In a large, oven-safe dish or Dutch oven, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down, packing them tightly together in the dish. Once the bottom is covered, pour the remaining tomato sauce over the rolls, making sure they are fully covered.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil or a tight-fitting lid and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1.5 to 2 hours. The cabbage rolls should be tender and the flavors should meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cabbage rolls are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Serve them hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. These cabbage rolls make a great main dish, especially when paired with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a side salad.
Tips for Perfect Cabbage Rolls:
- Freezing: Cabbage rolls freeze well, making them perfect for meal prep. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, or until heated through.
- Rice Alternatives: While this recipe uses white or brown rice, you can try using quinoa or even couscous for a different texture and flavor.
- Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with lentils or a plant-based protein, and make the sauce with vegetable broth instead of meat-based ingredients.
- Making Ahead: Cabbage rolls can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator before baking. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making them even tastier when you’re ready to bake and serve.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Comforting and Hearty: This dish is a warm, satisfying meal perfect for cold days or family gatherings.
- Full of Flavor: The combination of tender cabbage leaves, savory meat filling, and rich tomato sauce creates a dish that is bursting with flavor.
- Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: Cabbage rolls are great for meal prep or batch cooking. You can freeze them or make them a day ahead for an easy, stress-free dinner.
Classic cabbage rolls are the epitome of comfort food. With their rich tomato sauce and hearty filling, they bring warmth and flavor to any table. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just craving a homey dish, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
