Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1 tablespoon vinegar (apple cider vinegar works well)
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika (for depth of flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Assembling:

• 1 head of cabbage, core removed and leaves separated (8-10 large leaves)

How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

1. Blanch the cabbage: To make the cabbage leaves pliable for rolling, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Gently lower the whole cabbage head into the water and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the outer leaves begin to soften. Using tongs, carefully remove the cabbage and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. Separate the leaves: Once cool enough to handle, peel off the outer leaves, trimming off the thick vein from the bottom of each leaf. You’ll need 8-10 large leaves for stuffing.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Sauté the onion: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
2. Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, sautéed onion, egg, tomato paste, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Stuff the Cabbage Leaves

1. Place the filling on the leaves: Lay each cabbage leaf flat on a cutting board or clean surface. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling at the base of each leaf.
2. Roll the cabbage: Gently fold the sides of the cabbage leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to form a neat bundle. Repeat this process with the remaining leaves and filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

1. Make the sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, sugar (optional), vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Assemble and Cook the Cabbage Rolls

1. Arrange the rolls in the pot: Place the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in a large pot or Dutch oven. Pack them tightly together to prevent them from unrolling while cooking.
2. Add the sauce: Pour the prepared tomato sauce over the cabbage rolls, ensuring they are mostly covered. If needed, add a little water to the pot to ensure the rolls are submerged.
3. Simmer: Cover the pot and simmer the cabbage rolls on low heat for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the meat is cooked through and the cabbage is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from burning. The cabbage rolls are done when the filling reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the cabbage rolls: Once cooked, carefully remove the cabbage rolls from the pot and plate them. Spoon extra tomato sauce from the pot over the top for added flavor.
2. Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley or dill for a pop of color and flavor.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Don’t overfill the leaves: Be sure to use only 2-3 tablespoons of filling per cabbage leaf. Overstuffing can cause the rolls to burst open during cooking.
• Use tender cabbage: When choosing a cabbage, look for one with large, flexible leaves. This will make it easier to wrap the filling without the leaves tearing.
• Slow Cooker Option: If you prefer to cook your cabbage rolls in a slow cooker, layer them in the slow cooker, pour the sauce over them, and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
• Freezer-Friendly: Stuffed cabbage rolls freeze well! After cooking, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Serving Suggestions

Stuffed cabbage rolls are filling on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of sides to complete the meal:

• Mashed Potatoes: A creamy, buttery mashed potato makes a classic side dish that complements the savory stuffed cabbage.
• Crisp Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette will add a fresh, crunchy contrast to the richness of the cabbage rolls.
• Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts are perfect to serve alongside cabbage rolls for a complete and hearty meal.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a timeless dish that brings comfort and flavor to any table. With their tender cabbage leaves, savory filling, and rich tomato sauce, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing them for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress. The slow simmering process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.

Next time you’re in the mood for something deliciously comforting, give these stuffed cabbage rolls a try. They’ll warm your heart and your stomach!