Main Ingredients:
1 large head of cabbage
1 pound ground beef (or a combination of beef and pork)
1 cup cooked rice
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg, beaten
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups tomato sauce (or canned crushed tomatoes)
1 cup beef or vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional Ingredients for Variation:
1/2 cup grated carrots
1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms
Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme
A pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for heat
Step-by-Step Recipe: Making Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
1. Prepare the Cabbage
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Remove the core from the cabbage and gently place the whole head in the boiling water.
Boil for about 5-7 minutes, until the outer leaves are tender and pliable. Carefully remove the cabbage from the water and let it cool.
Once cooled, separate the leaves. You will need about 12-16 large leaves for rolling. If the leaves are too thick near the stem, use a knife to shave off some of the thickness.
2. Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
For added flavor, you can mix in grated carrots, chopped mushrooms, or fresh herbs.
3. Assemble the Rolls
Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Place a generous spoonful of the meat mixture near the base of the leaf.
Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling and roll it up tightly, starting from the base. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
4. Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add any remaining chopped onion and garlic and sauté until softened.
Stir in the tomato sauce and broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and season with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices you like.
5. Cook the Cabbage Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a large baking dish or Dutch oven. Pour the tomato sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are well-covered.
Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the rolls are tender and the flavors have melded together.
Stuffed Cabbages Rolls
