Ingredients

For the Filling:

• Ground beef: 400 g
• Rice (uncooked): 200 g
• Bulgur: 100 g
• Onion (finely chopped): 70 g
• Garlic (minced): 2 cloves
• Fresh parsley (chopped): 30 g
• Black pepper (ground): 1 tsp
• Salt: 1½ tsp

For the Sauce:

• White cabbage: 1.3 kg
• Tomato paste: 4 tbsp
• Garlic (minced): 2 cloves
• Water: 450 ml
• Chili flakes: 1 tsp
• Black pepper (ground): 1 tsp
• Salt: ½ tsp
• Sugar: 1 tsp
• Vegetable oil: 4 tbsp
• Butter: 20 g

Preparation Details

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours
• Servings: 6
• Calories (per serving): Approximately 320 kcal

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

1. Boil the Cabbage:
   Core the cabbage by cutting around the stem and removing it. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and carefully place the cabbage in the pot. Simmer for 5-8 minutes, peeling off the outer leaves as they become tender. Repeat until you have 12-15 large leaves.
2. Trim the Leaves:
   Cut off the thick center vein at the base of each leaf to make them easier to roll. Set the leaves aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Cook the Rice and Bulgur:
   In a medium pot, cook the rice and bulgur together in lightly salted water until partially cooked (about 10 minutes). Drain and let cool.
2. Combine the Filling Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, cooked rice and bulgur, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, black pepper, and salt. Use your hands to combine the ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

1. Sauté the Garlic:
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Make the Sauce Base:
   Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen its flavor. Add water, chili flakes, black pepper, salt, and sugar, stirring until smooth. Bring to a simmer.
3. Add Butter:
   Stir in the butter for a richer flavor, then set the sauce aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

1. Fill the Leaves:
   Lay a cabbage leaf flat and place 2-3 tablespoons of the filling near the base. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the base to form a neat roll. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
2. Layer the Rolls:
   In a large pot or deep baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a single layer. If needed, add a second layer on top.
3. Add the Sauce:
   Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the cabbage rolls, ensuring they are mostly covered. Add a splash of water if necessary.

Step 5: Cook the Cabbage Rolls

1. Simmer on the Stovetop:
   Cover the pot and simmer the rolls over low heat for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
2. Alternative Baking Method:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1.5 hours.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish:
   Sprinkle fresh parsley over the cooked cabbage rolls for a burst of color and freshness.
2. Enjoy:
   Serve warm with a side of crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls have endured as a beloved dish because they embody the essence of comfort food. The combination of humble ingredients—cabbage, beef, rice, and tomato sauce—creates a meal that is hearty, satisfying, and deeply nostalgic.

This recipe’s versatility adds to its timeless appeal. You can adjust the spices, experiment with different grains, or even create a vegetarian version using lentils or mushrooms. The slow cooking process ensures that each roll is infused with flavor, making every bite a delicious experience.

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are also perfect for special occasions and everyday meals alike, bringing families together around the dinner table. Their simplicity and adaptability make them a dish you’ll want to return to time and time again.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 6g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with a mix of cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative.

2. Can I freeze stuffed cabbage rolls?
Absolutely. Assemble the rolls and freeze them in an airtight container before cooking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and cook as directed.

3. What can I serve with cabbage rolls?
Serve them with mashed potatoes, sour cream, or a side salad for a complete meal.

4. Can I use another type of cabbage?
Savoy cabbage works well and is easier to roll due to its softer leaves.

Tips for Success

• Cabbage Prep: Boil the cabbage just enough to soften the leaves without making them mushy.
• Filling Consistency: Partially cook the rice and bulgur to prevent them from becoming overcooked during simmering.
• Seam-Side Down: Always place the rolls seam-side down to prevent them from unraveling while cooking.
• Extra Sauce: Make a little extra tomato sauce for serving alongside the rolls.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked rolls in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls in Tomato Sauce are more than just a meal—they’re a celebration of tradition and flavor. This timeless dish combines the earthy sweetness of cabbage with a savory filling and a tangy tomato sauce, creating a symphony of tastes and textures.

What makes these rolls so special is their ability to bring people together. They’re a dish that’s as much about the process of making them—layering, rolling, and simmering—as it is about enjoying the final product. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing them for a festive occasion, Stuffed Cabbage Rolls will always be a crowd-pleaser.

This recipe stands the test of time because it’s comforting, versatile, and filled with heart. From the tender cabbage leaves to the aromatic filling and rich sauce, every bite is a reminder of why classic dishes never go out of style. Try this recipe today and create a new tradition with your loved ones—it’s a dish you’ll cherish for years to come!