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#### Step 2: Prepare the Filling
1. **Cook the Rice**: Cook the rice according to package instructions. It should be cooked but not too soft, as it will continue cooking when the cabbage rolls are simmered in the sauce.
2. **Sauté the Onion**: In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the garlic powder (or fresh garlic) and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Let the mixture cool slightly.
3. **Mix the Filling**: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, sautéed onion, egg, fresh parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. The filling should be moist but firm enough to hold its shape when rolled in the cabbage leaves.
#### Step 3: Roll the Cabbage Rolls
1. **Lay Out the Cabbage Leaves**: Place one cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Put a generous spoonful of the filling (about 2 tablespoons) near the base of the leaf.
2. **Roll Up the Leaves**: Gently fold in the sides of the cabbage leaf over the filling, then carefully roll the leaf up, tucking in the sides as you go. The result should be a tight, secure roll that will hold its shape while cooking. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
#### Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
1. **Combine the Sauce Ingredients**: In a large bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. **Layer the Cabbage Rolls**: In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, place a thin layer of the tomato sauce at the bottom. Arrange the cabbage rolls tightly in a single layer over the sauce. Pour the remaining sauce over the cabbage rolls, making sure they are covered.
#### Step 5: Simmer the Cabbage Rolls
1. **Simmer on the Stovetop**: Cover the pot and place it over medium-low heat. Simmer the cabbage rolls for 1.5 to 2 hours, occasionally spooning the sauce over the rolls. The cabbage should become tender, and the filling should cook through.
2. **Oven Method**: Alternatively, you can cook the cabbage rolls in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). After arranging the cabbage rolls and sauce in the Dutch oven, cover tightly with foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours.
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### Tips for Making Perfect Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
– **Don’t Overstuff the Rolls**: It’s easy to get excited and load up the cabbage leaves with too much filling. However, if the rolls are overstuffed, they might burst open during cooking. Stick to 2 tablespoons of filling per roll for the best results.
– **Make Ahead**: Stuffed cabbage rolls can be made ahead of time. After rolling the cabbage, place them in a baking dish, cover with sauce, and refrigerate for up to a day. Simply reheat them in the oven before serving.
– **Freezing**: You can freeze cabbage rolls before or after cooking. To freeze, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer the rolls to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour.
– **Variation**: For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, and for a vegetarian option, use rice, lentils, and vegetables for the filling.
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### Serving Suggestions
**Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Rolls** pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving them with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple green salad. You could also make a tangy side of sauerkraut or pickled vegetables to balance the richness of the cabbage rolls.
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### Conclusion
**Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Rolls** are a timeless, comforting dish that brings together tender cabbage, savory filling, and a rich tomato sauce. Whether served as a weeknight dinner, for a holiday gathering, or to feed a crowd, this dish is sure to satisfy. With its simple yet hearty ingredients, it’s a dish that’s perfect for meal prepping, freezing, and enjoying at any time of the year.
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create the perfect cabbage rolls with a flavorful filling, tender cabbage, and a savory sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s a recipe that’s easy to customize, and with a little time and care, you’ll have a meal that’s both nostalgic and satisfying.
Happy cooking, and enjoy the warmth and comfort of **Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Rolls**!
