Stuffed cabbage rolls are a comforting, hearty dish that combines cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of minced meat, rice, and herbs. This classic dish, perfect for family meals or gatherings, is made even more flavorful with a spicy tomato-based sauce and a creamy dill sauce that brings a refreshing touch. In this recipe, we’ll cover everything you need to create this delicious meal, including helpful tips, storage recommendations, and answers to frequently asked questions. Prepare for a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will leave everyone wanting seconds!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• Eggs: 3 large
• Salt: to taste
• Cabbage: 600g (21.16oz)
• Water: 500ml (2 cups) for boiling cabbage, plus 1 cup hot water for rice
• Basmati Rice: 1/2 cup
• Butter: 50g (1.76oz)
• Onions: 2, finely chopped
• Carrot: 1 large, grated
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Italian Herb Mixture: 1 tbsp (thyme, rosemary, oregano)
• Minced Meat (pork and beef blend): 500g (17.64oz)
• Black Pepper: to taste
• Parsley and Dill: to taste, chopped
• Paprika: 1/2 tbsp
• Vegetable Oil: for sautéing
• Flour: 3 tbsp

For the Spicy Tomato Sauce:

• Butter: 50g (1.76oz)
• Flour: 2 tbsp
• Tomato Paste: 2 tbsp
• Water: 500ml (2 cups)
• Salt: 1 tsp
• Dried Garlic: 1/2 tsp
• Dried Onion: 1/2 tsp
• Bay Leaves: 3

For the Creamy Dill Sauce:

• Sour Cream: 4 tbsp
• Dill: to taste, chopped
• Salt: to taste
• Garlic: 1 clove, minced

Steps to Make It

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

1. Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage and rinse it thoroughly.
2. Bring 500ml (2 cups) of water to a boil in a large pot. Add salt to the water.
3. Place the whole cabbage head into the boiling water and blanch for 5-7 minutes until the leaves soften and can be easily removed without tearing.
4. Carefully remove the cabbage from the water, separate the leaves, and set them aside.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

1. In a saucepan, add 1/2 cup of basmati rice and 1 cup of hot water.
2. Cover and cook over low heat until the rice absorbs the water and is tender. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large skillet, melt 50g of butter over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions, grated carrot, and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, minced meat, eggs, Italian herbs, black pepper, salt, and paprika. Add parsley and dill to taste. Mix thoroughly.

Step 4: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

1. Take one cabbage leaf and place a spoonful of the filling mixture in the center. Fold in the sides and roll up to secure the filling.
2. Repeat this process with all remaining cabbage leaves and filling.

Step 5: Prepare the Spicy Tomato Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt 50g of butter and stir in 2 tbsp of flour to form a roux.
2. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Slowly add 500ml (2 cups) of water, whisking to avoid lumps.
4. Add salt, dried garlic, dried onion, and bay leaves. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes.

Step 6: Cook the Cabbage Rolls

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (355°F).
2. In a large baking dish, arrange the cabbage rolls in a single layer. Pour the spicy tomato sauce over the rolls, ensuring they’re well-coated.
3. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the rolls are tender and cooked through.

Step 7: Prepare the Creamy Dill Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine sour cream, minced garlic, chopped dill, and salt to taste.
2. Stir until well-mixed and set aside as a dipping sauce.

Step 8: Serve

1. Remove the cabbage rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly.
2. Serve with a spoonful of creamy dill sauce on the side for added flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Estimated per serving, serves 6

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: 18 grams
• Carbohydrates: 22 grams
• Fat: 16 grams
• Fiber: 4 grams
• Sugars: 5 grams
• Sodium: 500 mg

FAQs

Q: Can I substitute the meat with a vegetarian option?
A: Absolutely. You can replace the minced meat with a mixture of lentils, mushrooms, or a vegetarian meat alternative for a plant-based version.

Q: Can I freeze the cabbage rolls?
A: Yes, cabbage rolls freeze well. Place cooled rolls in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.

Q: What other herbs can I add?
A: Fresh basil, cilantro, or chives add excellent flavor. Adjust according to your preference.

Q: Can I make the sauce spicier?
A: Yes, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Tips for Making the Best Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cabbage and high-quality meat will make the dish more flavorful.
• Prevent Tearing: Handle cabbage leaves gently to prevent tearing, and don’t overfill them to keep the rolls intact.
• Squeeze the Rice: Slightly squeeze the cooked rice to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
• Add Extra Seasonings: Adjust herbs and spices based on your preference. Taste the filling before assembling the rolls to ensure seasoning is balanced.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauces can also be stored separately in the fridge.
• Freezing: For longer storage, place the cabbage rolls and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat cabbage rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. If using a microwave, place them in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.

Conclusion

These Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Spicy Tomato Sauce and Creamy Dill Sauce offer a deliciously hearty and flavorful meal. The savory filling of minced meat, rice, and vegetables paired with the rich tomato sauce creates a satisfying bite, while the creamy dill sauce adds a refreshing contrast. Whether enjoyed fresh or reheated, these cabbage rolls are perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prepping. Give this recipe a try for a dish that’s sure to please everyone around the table!