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1. Prepare the Cabbage:
Start by preparing the cabbage. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. While the water is heating up, carefully remove the core of the cabbage and peel off the outer leaves. You will need about 12 large leaves, so be sure to choose the biggest and most intact ones. Blanch the cabbage leaves by submerging them into the boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they are tender but still hold their shape. Remove the leaves and place them in a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process. Pat the leaves dry with a towel.
2. Make the Stuffing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be firm and easy to handle.
3. Assemble the Rolls:
Take one cabbage leaf at a time and trim the thick vein from the center to make it easier to roll. Place a generous spoonful of the meat and rice mixture in the center of the leaf. Fold the sides of the cabbage leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly, ensuring the filling is completely enclosed. Repeat this process with the remaining leaves and filling.
4. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Cook the Cabbage Rolls:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large baking dish, spread a small amount of the tomato sauce on the bottom to prevent the rolls from sticking. Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls tightly in the dish, seam side down. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the cabbage rolls, ensuring they are covered with sauce. If needed, cover the dish with foil to help retain moisture.
Bake the cabbage rolls in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and the cabbage is tender. If you prefer a slightly crispy top, you can remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cabbage rolls are finished baking, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the rolls with extra Parmesan cheese on the side and enjoy the comforting, hearty flavors of this classic Italian dish.
Tips for Perfect Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls:
- Use a Meat Mixture: For a more flavorful filling, consider using a combination of ground beef and ground pork. The pork adds a bit of richness that complements the beef nicely.
- Rice Choices: While white rice is the most common choice, you can experiment with brown rice for a heartier texture or even quinoa for a gluten-free alternative.
- Customize the Sauce: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. You can also add a splash of red wine for extra depth of flavor.
- Make Ahead: Stuffed cabbage rolls can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for 1-2 days before baking. You can also freeze them before baking for a meal that’s ready to go at a later date.
Why Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Are a Must-Try:
Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls combine some of the best elements of Italian cuisine: fresh herbs, savory meat, and rich tomato sauce. This dish is perfect for a comforting family meal, but it’s also sophisticated enough to serve for a special occasion or holiday dinner. The tender cabbage, flavorful filling, and the luscious tomato sauce make every bite satisfying and full of depth.
This dish is a great way to use simple, wholesome ingredients and transform them into something special. It’s not only delicious but also a perfect dish for sharing with loved ones. The time spent preparing and baking these cabbage rolls is well worth the reward of the flavorful and satisfying result.
Final Thoughts:
Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are an easy and flavorful way to bring some Italian comfort to your table. With tender cabbage, savory meat, and a rich tomato sauce, these rolls are sure to be a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the deliciousness of this timeless dish!
