Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
🥬 Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: A Timeless Comfort Food
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are the kind of cozy, satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug from the past. Made with tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory mixture of seasoned ground meat and rice, and then simmered in a rich tomato sauce, this beloved recipe has stood the test of time. Whether served as a hearty entrée or a comforting side, it’s a perfect meal for chilly evenings and family gatherings.
🧾 Ingredients for Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Here’s a convenient table to help you gather what you need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green Cabbage Leaves | 12 large leaves |
| Ground Beef or Pork | 1 pound |
| Cooked White Rice | 1 cup |
| Onion, finely chopped | ½ cup |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Fresh Parsley, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Dried Thyme | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
| Tomato Sauce | 2 cups |
| Crushed Tomatoes | 1 cup |
| Brown Sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon |
👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Soften the Cabbage:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently peel the cabbage leaves and blanch them in the hot water for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened. Remove and let them cool.
2. Make the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Assemble the Rolls:
Lay out a cabbage leaf. Place a portion of the filling in the center. Fold the sides inward and roll tightly to enclose. Repeat until all leaves and filling are used.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
In a saucepan, combine tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, brown sugar, and lemon juice. Simmer gently over medium heat for a few minutes.
5. Cook the Rolls:
Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a large pot or deep skillet. Pour the warm tomato sauce over the rolls, making sure they’re fully covered. Simmer on low heat for 30–40 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
6. Serve:
Carefully remove the rolls and arrange on a serving dish. Spoon some of the sauce over the top and serve warm.
🍽️ Serving & Storing Tips
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a crisp salad.
Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully.
Enjoy the nostalgic comfort of this wholesome dish—it’s a family favorite for good reason!
