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Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

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Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

  1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
  3. Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, and seasoning.
  4. Simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors blend.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

  1. Place about 2 tablespoons of filling on the bottom of each cabbage leaf.
  2. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly like a burrito.
  3. Arrange the rolls seam-side down in a large baking dish or Dutch oven.

Step 5: Bake or Simmer

  • Oven Method: Pour the sauce over the cabbage rolls, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1.5 to 2 hours.
  • Stovetop Method: Pour sauce over the rolls in a large pot, cover, and simmer on low heat for 1.5 hours.

Variations to Try

  • 🐔 Use ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
  • 🍚 Swap rice for quinoa or bulgur for a twist.
  • 🌿 Add dill, thyme, or mint for regional flavor variations.
  • 🧀 Top with shredded cheese and broil briefly before serving for an indulgent finish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your stuffed cabbage rolls with:

  • 🥔 Mashed potatoes or boiled baby potatoes
  • 🍞 Crusty bread to soak up the sauce
  • 🥗 A crisp green salad or pickled vegetables for contrast
  • 🍷 A glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

  • 🧊 Make ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
  • ❄️ Freeze: Place cooked (or uncooked) rolls in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating or baking.
  • ♨️ Reheat gently in the oven or on the stove with a bit of extra sauce or broth.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are the kind of recipe that brings generations together—whether it’s passed down from your grandmother or discovered in a favorite cookbook. They’re humble, hearty, and incredibly satisfying.

Once you master the method, you can adapt them endlessly to suit your taste or diet. So roll up your sleeves and give this classic dish a try—it’s comfort food at its finest.


Have a family twist on cabbage rolls? Add it in the comments—we’d love to hear your version of this timeless favorite!