- 2 cups tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (for depth of flavor)
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or dill) for garnish
How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage head.
- Submerge the whole cabbage in the boiling water for about 2-3 minutes or until the leaves become pliable.
- Remove the cabbage and carefully peel off the leaves, setting them aside to cool. You’ll need about 12-15 leaves for stuffing.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, beaten egg, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
- Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling at the base of the leaf.
- Fold in the sides and roll it up tightly, like a burrito. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
- In a medium bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, broth, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
Step 5: Cook the Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish.
- Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish. Pour the remaining sauce over the top, ensuring all rolls are well covered.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 1 hour. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes to let the sauce thicken.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Once cooked, remove the cabbage rolls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
- Don’t Overfill: It’s easy to get carried away with the filling, but too much can make rolling difficult and lead to bursting.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add spices like cumin or herbs like dill for a different flavor profile. You can also incorporate veggies like grated carrots or bell peppers into the filling.
- Freezing for Later: These rolls freeze beautifully. After cooking, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Conclusion
Stuffed cabbage rolls are a timeless dish that offers comfort, nutrition, and versatility. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious meal that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy this hearty classic!
