Delicious Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 medium head cabbage (3 pounds)
• 1/2 pound uncooked ground beef
• 1/2 pound uncooked ground pork
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce, divided
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup uncooked long grain rice
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon snipped fresh dill or dill weed
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar

Directions:

1. Prepare the Cabbage:

• Cook the cabbage in boiling water until the outer leaves easily pull away from the head. Set aside 12 large leaves for the rolls.

1. Make the Filling:

• In a small bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, 1/2 cup of the tomato sauce, chopped onion, uncooked rice, parsley flakes, salt, dill, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.

1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves:

• Cut out the thick vein from the bottom of each leaf, making a V-shaped cut. Place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture on each cabbage leaf. Overlap the cut ends of the leaf, fold in the sides, and roll up starting from the cut end.

1. Assemble the Rolls:

• Slice the remaining cabbage and place it in the bottom of a Dutch oven. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam side down over the sliced cabbage.

1. Make the Sauce:

• Combine the diced tomatoes, sugar, and remaining tomato sauce. Pour this mixture over the cabbage rolls.

1. Bake:

• Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1-1/2 hours or until the cabbage rolls are tender.

Tips and Variations

• Meat Variations: You can use all beef, all pork, or even ground turkey as a healthier option.
• Rice Options: Substitute long grain rice with brown rice or even quinoa for a different texture and added nutrition.
• Additional Veggies: Add finely chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Spices: Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Try adding a pinch of paprika or a bit more cayenne for added heat.

How to Store

• Refrigerate: Store any leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Cabbage rolls can also be frozen. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare cabbage rolls ahead of time?

• Yes, you can assemble the rolls a day ahead and keep them in the refrigerator. Bake them when you’re ready to serve.

2. How do I prevent cabbage rolls from falling apart?

• Make sure to remove the thick vein from the cabbage leaves and roll them tightly. Placing them seam side down in the pot also helps keep them intact during cooking.

3. What can I serve with stuffed cabbage rolls?

• Stuffed cabbage rolls pair well with mashed potatoes, a side of sour cream, or a fresh green salad.

Enjoy these hearty and flavorful stuffed cabbage rolls, a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners!