Instructions
1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
- Boil the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the entire head into the boiling water. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, then peel off the softened outer leaves with tongs. Continue to cook and peel the leaves in layers until you have about 12-15 leaves. Set them aside to cool.
- Trim the Thick Veins: If the cabbage leaves have thick veins, use a knife to trim them down, making the leaves easier to roll.
2. Make the Filling
- Cook the Rice: Cook the rice according to the package instructions, but slightly undercook it so it remains firm. Let it cool.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Use your hands to blend the mixture until it is well combined but not overworked.
3. Assemble the Cabbage Rolls
- Fill the Leaves: Place a cabbage leaf on a flat surface, with the stem end facing you. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the meat mixture onto the center of the leaf. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll it up from the stem end to form a tight roll.
- Repeat: Continue this process until all the filling is used, placing the rolls seam-side down to keep them secure.
4. Prepare the Tomato Sauce
- Combine the Sauce Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the tomato sauce, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Add the bay leaf and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for about 5-10 minutes, then remove the bay leaf.
5. Cook the Cabbage Rolls
- Layer the Rolls in a Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish. Place the cabbage rolls in a single layer, seam-side down. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the meat is cooked through. Basting the rolls occasionally with the sauce will keep them moist and flavorful.
6. Serve
- Plate the Cabbage Rolls: Carefully transfer the rolls to a serving plate, spooning extra sauce over the top.
- Optional Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and added freshness.
Tips for Success
- Blanch the Cabbage Properly: Don’t rush the process of boiling and peeling the cabbage leaves. Blanching them makes them pliable and easier to roll.
- Mix the Filling Gently: Avoid overmixing the meat and rice filling to keep the texture tender rather than dense.
- Double the Sauce: If you love a lot of sauce, consider making extra to serve on the side.
Variations
- Use Different Meats: Try using ground pork, turkey, or a combination of meats for a different flavor.
- Make It Vegetarian: Replace the meat with a mixture of lentils, mushrooms, and finely chopped vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Add Bacon: For a smoky flavor, add chopped bacon to the meat mixture.
Why You’ll Love Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
- Hearty and Comforting: This dish is the epitome of comfort food, providing a warm, satisfying meal that’s perfect for cooler weather.
- Great for Meal Prep: Cabbage rolls reheat beautifully and can even be made in advance and frozen for future meals.
- Full of Flavor: The combination of seasoned meat, tender cabbage, and savory tomato sauce creates a dish with layers of deliciousness.
Health Benefits
- Rich in Protein: With ground meat and rice, stuffed cabbage rolls provide a good source of protein to help keep you full and energized.
- High in Fiber: Cabbage is a nutritious vegetable that’s low in calories and high in fiber, which aids in digestion.
- Nutrient-Dense: The dish is packed with vitamins and minerals, especially when incorporating fresh herbs and vegetables.
Conclusion
Stuffed cabbage rolls are a time-honored dish that brings together the best of home-cooked comfort food. With tender cabbage, flavorful meat, and a rich tomato sauce, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or simply to warm up a chilly evening. So grab a head of cabbage, roll up your sleeves, and savor the timeless tradition of making (and eating) delicious stuffed cabbage rolls!
