Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Introduction
Classic cabbage rolls are a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of ground meat and rice. Simmered gently in a flavorful tomato sauce, they make a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 2 cups tomato sauce
Instructions
- Step 1: Carefully separate cabbage leaves and blanch them in boiling water until soft and pliable. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a bowl, combine ground meat and cooked rice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 3: Place a spoonful of the meat mixture onto each cabbage leaf and roll tightly, folding in the sides to secure the filling.
- Step 4: Arrange the rolls seam-side down in a large pot. Pour tomato sauce over the rolls, covering them completely.
- Step 5: Simmer the cabbage rolls gently over low heat for about 1 to 1.5 hours, until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, sauté finely chopped onions and garlic before mixing them into the meat and rice filling.
- Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the filling for a bright, fresh taste.
- Use beef broth or a mix of tomato sauce and broth for a richer cooking liquid.
- Leftover rolls can be baked in the oven with extra tomato sauce for a different texture.
Storage
Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a covered pan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. They also freeze well; freeze rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for the filling?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb depending on your preference. Mixing different meats can also add depth of flavor.
Do I have to cook the rice before stuffing the rolls?
Yes, rice should be fully cooked before being combined with the meat to ensure it softens properly during simmering and avoids a crunchy texture.
PrintClassic Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Classic Cabbage Rolls are a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a savory mixture of ground meat and rice, simmered in a rich tomato sauce until perfectly cooked. This traditional recipe is perfect for a warming family meal that combines simple ingredients into a satisfying and flavorful dish.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Eastern European
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Rolls
- 1 large head of cabbage (about 2 to 3 pounds)
- 1 pound ground beef or a blend of beef and pork
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
For the Sauce
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 cup water or beef broth
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage Leaves: Remove the core from the cabbage and carefully peel off about 12 large leaves. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until pliable, then drain and set aside to cool.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, uncooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Stuff the Cabbage Leaves: Place about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the meat mixture onto the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly, ensuring the filling is fully enclosed.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix tomato sauce, water or broth, sugar, salt, and pepper to create a balanced, slightly sweet tomato sauce.
- Simmer the Rolls: Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a large pot or deep skillet in a single layer. Pour the tomato sauce mixture over the rolls, ensuring they are mostly covered with liquid. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Cook Until Tender: Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 1 to 1.5 hours until the cabbage is tender and the filling is fully cooked, stirring gently occasionally to prevent sticking.
Notes
- Using a mix of ground beef and pork can add extra flavor and moisture to the filling.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure the tomato sauce and other ingredients are free of any gluten additives.
- Leftover cabbage rolls can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
- If you prefer, you can precook the rice before mixing it into the filling, but using uncooked rice yields a better texture after simmering.
Keywords: cabbage rolls, stuffed cabbage, ground meat, tomato sauce, comfort food
