Description
Stuffed cabbage rolls are a comforting and hearty dish that brings a touch of tradition to your dining table. Originating from various cultures, these rolls are filled with a delicious mixture of seasoned meat and rice, all enveloped in tender cabbage leaves and baked in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe not only warms the soul but is also a feast for the eyes.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1/2 cup of onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon of garlic, minced
- 28 oz. can of crushed tomatoes (do not drain)
- 15 oz. can of tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 1 lb of ground beef (90% lean recommended)
- 1 cup of cooked rice
- 1/2 cup of onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of pepper
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley leaves, chopped (divided use)
- 1 egg
- 1 head of cabbage
- Cooking spray
Instructions
To Make the Tomato Sauce:
- Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a pot over medium heat.
- Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, followed by the 28 oz. can of crushed tomatoes and the 15 oz. can of tomato sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Incorporate 2 tablespoons of brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar into the mixture, then bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
To Make the Cabbage Rolls:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the head of cabbage and gently place the cabbage in the boiling water. Boil for about 5 minutes or until the leaves are tender.
- Remove the cabbage from the water and let it cool slightly. Carefully peel off 8 to 10 outer leaves, ensuring they remain intact.
- In a large bowl, combine 1 lb of ground beef, 1 cup of cooked rice, 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion, 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, and 1/4 cup of chopped parsley (reserve some for garnish). Add 1 egg and mix until well combined.
- Place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture on each cabbage leaf and fold in the sides, rolling it up tightly to secure the filling.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spray a baking dish with cooking spray. Spread a thin layer of the prepared tomato sauce on the bottom of the dish. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam side down in the dish, then cover with the remaining tomato sauce.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove the foil during the last 15 minutes of baking to allow the tops to brown slightly.
- Prep Time: 30mins
- Cook Time: 1hr