Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Introduction:
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a beloved comfort food that combines tender cabbage leaves with a flavorful filling of ground meat, rice, and spices. This classic dish is cooked in a savory tomato sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, these cabbage rolls are hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 1 large head of cabbage
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork (optional, can use all beef)
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth or water
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice or vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cabbage:

• Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage head. Place the whole head in the boiling water, allowing the outer leaves to soften. Remove the softened leaves and set aside to cool. Repeat until you have enough leaves for all the rolls.

1. Prepare the Filling:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, dried thyme, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

1. Assemble the Rolls:

• Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a cutting board. Place about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling and roll up from the bottom to secure the filling inside. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.

1. Prepare the Sauce:

• In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth (or water), brown sugar, lemon juice (or vinegar), dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

1. Cook the Rolls:

• Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the rolls. Cover and simmer over low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the meat is cooked through. Baste occasionally with the sauce.

1. Serve:

• Carefully remove the cabbage rolls from the pot and place them on a serving platter. Spoon additional sauce over the rolls and serve hot.

Tips for Success:

• Ensure the cabbage leaves are softened enough to roll easily without tearing. If necessary, trim any thick veins from the leaves to make rolling easier.
• For extra flavor, add a bay leaf or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Recommendation:
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are delicious served with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a side of sour cream. They also make excellent leftovers and can be frozen for future meals. Simply reheat gently in the microwave or oven.

Enjoy the comforting, flavorful goodness of Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, a classic dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table!