Stuffed Cabbage Recipe

Stuffed cabbage, known for its comforting flavors and hearty appeal, is a dish that spans cultures and generations. Whether you call it stuffed cabbage rolls, golabki, or dolma, the essence remains the same: tender cabbage leaves enveloping a savory filling, often accompanied by a rich tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a satisfying meal that blends wholesome ingredients with a touch of culinary nostalgia.

Ingredients:

• Cabbage Rolls:
• 1 large head of green cabbage
• 1 lb ground beef (you can also use a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon dried dill
• Tomato Sauce:
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon vinegar (apple cider or white vinegar)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cabbage:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Carefully peel off the outer leaves of the cabbage and blanch them in the boiling water for about 2-3 minutes, until they are softened. Remove and set aside to cool. Repeat until you have about 12 large leaves.

1. Make the Filling:

• In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, paprika, thyme, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

1. Assemble the Rolls:

• Take a cabbage leaf and place a small amount of the filling (about 1/4 cup) onto the center. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it up from the bottom to enclose the filling completely. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.

1. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:

• In a saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, brown sugar, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

1. Cook the Stuffed Cabbage:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce. Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the rolls.

1. Bake:

• Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.

1. Serve:

• Carefully transfer the stuffed cabbage rolls to a serving platter. Spoon some of the tomato sauce over the rolls before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill.

Enjoy Your Stuffed Cabbage!

This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The blend of flavors from the tender cabbage, savory meat filling, and tangy tomato sauce is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Serve it with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Stuffed cabbage is not just a meal—it’s a comforting culinary experience that brings warmth to any table.