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Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

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Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: A Comfort Food Classic Worth the Effort

Tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling of meat, rice, and herbs, then slowly simmered in a rich tomato sauce—Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are the very definition of comfort food. Found in cuisines across Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and even parts of Asia, this timeless dish is hearty, wholesome, and packed with flavor.

While they take a bit more time than your average weeknight dinner, the payoff is a soul-warming meal that’s just as satisfying as it is nostalgic. Let’s walk through everything you need to know to make this beloved recipe at home.

Why You’ll Love Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

  • 🥬 Wholesome and filling – A balanced meal in one: protein, carbs, and vegetables.
  • 🍅 Saucy and savory – Slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce for maximum flavor.
  • 🧊 Freezer-friendly – Make a batch and save some for a future cozy dinner.
  • 🌍 Culturally rich – A recipe rooted in tradition and loved by many around the world.

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls:

  • 1 large head of green cabbage
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef, pork, or a mix
  • 1/2 cup uncooked rice (white or parboiled)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)

For the Tomato Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika or red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
  2. Remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head into the boiling water.
  3. Boil for 5–10 minutes, peeling off the softened outer leaves as they loosen. You’ll need about 12 large leaves.
  4. Let the leaves cool and trim the thick vein at the base of each leaf to make rolling easier.

Step 2: Make the Filling

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, rice, chopped onion, garlic, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  2. Mix well but avoid overworking to keep the filling tender.