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Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: A Comforting Classic Recipe
Stuffed cabbage rolls are a timeless dish loved by families around the world. Whether you’re enjoying them for a special occasion or as a hearty weeknight dinner, these cabbage rolls are sure to become a favorite in your home. Filled with savory meat and rice, then simmered in a tangy tomato sauce, this dish is the perfect combination of comfort and flavor.
If you’re new to stuffed cabbage rolls or looking for a fresh take on the classic, this recipe will guide you step-by-step. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of stuffed cabbage rolls!
What Are Stuffed Cabbage Rolls?
Stuffed cabbage rolls, also known as golabki in Polish, sarma in the Balkans, or holubtsi in Ukraine, are cabbage leaves stuffed with a delicious filling, typically made of ground meat, rice, and spices. The stuffed cabbage rolls are then simmered in a savory tomato sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together. The dish is often served with a dollop of sour cream and makes for a fulfilling meal.
Ingredients for Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
For the Stuffing:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a combination of beef and pork)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor)
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For the Sauce:
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes (or 1 can)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (to balance the acidity)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or vinegar for a different tang)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 1 large head of cabbage
Optional Garnishes:
- Sour cream
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Start by preparing the cabbage. You’ll need to soften the cabbage leaves so they’re flexible enough to roll without tearing. There are two ways to do this:
- Boiling Method: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the entire head of cabbage into the water. Boil the cabbage for about 5-7 minutes, or until the outer leaves become soft. Peel the leaves off one by one, being careful not to tear them. Repeat until you have about 12-15 leaves.
- Freezing Method: If you want to skip boiling, you can freeze the cabbage head overnight. The next day, thaw it slightly, and the leaves will easily peel off without the need for boiling.
Once your leaves are softened, set them aside and allow them to cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Mix everything together until well combined. You should have a hearty, flavorful filling that will be the star of your cabbage rolls.
Step 3: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls
Place a cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Depending on the size of the leaf, you may need to trim the stem to make it easier to roll. Scoop a generous portion of the meat and rice mixture (about 2-3 tablespoons) onto the center of the leaf.
Fold in the sides of the cabbage leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly, like a burrito. Repeat this process with the remaining leaves and filling until all of your rolls are ready.
