Indulge in the comforting flavors of this traditional Stuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe. With tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of ground pork and rice, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce, this dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a hearty and satisfying meal that will impress your loved ones.
Ingredients
- 1 medium cabbage (about 3 lbs)
- 1/2 lb raw ground pork
- 1/2 lb raw ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce, divided
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup raw long-grain rice
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly chopped dill or dill weed
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cabbage
- Core the Cabbage: Remove the core from the cabbage using a sharp knife.
- Blanch the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully place the whole cabbage into the boiling water and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the outer leaves are soft and pliable. Remove the cabbage from the pot and peel off the softened leaves. Repeat the process until you have enough leaves for rolling (about 12-15 leaves). Set the leaves aside to cool.
2. Make the Filling
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, ground beef, 1/2 cup of tomato sauce, chopped onion, raw rice, parsley flakes, salt, dill, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Assemble the Rolls
- Prepare the Leaves: Using a paring knife, trim the thick vein from the bottom of each cabbage leaf to make them easier to roll.
- Fill the Leaves: Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the meat mixture in the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold the sides over the filling and roll up from the bottom, tucking in the sides as you go, to completely enclose the filling.
4. Cook the Rolls
- Layer the Rolls: In a large pot or Dutch oven, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom. Place the cabbage rolls seam side down in a single layer in the pot. If necessary, make a second layer of rolls.
- Add Sauce: Pour the remaining tomato sauce and drained diced tomatoes over the cabbage rolls. Add 1/2 teaspoon of sugar to the sauce. If the sauce does not cover the rolls, add a little water until the rolls are just covered.
- Simmer: Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat and rice are fully cooked and the cabbage is tender.
5. Serve
- Plate the Rolls: Carefully remove the cabbage rolls from the pot using a slotted spoon and place them on a serving platter.
- Top with Sauce: Spoon some of the sauce from the pot over the rolls before serving.
Cook’s Tips and Variations
- Meat Variations: You can substitute the ground pork and beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Rice Alternatives: Feel free to use brown rice or a mix of wild and white rice for added texture and nutrition.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with a mixture of finely chopped mushrooms, cooked lentils, and additional vegetables.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I make stuffed cabbage rolls ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the rolls and assemble them in the pot, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. You may need to extend the cooking time slightly if starting from a cold state.
Q: Can I freeze stuffed cabbage rolls? A: Yes, stuffed cabbage rolls freeze well. Place the uncooked rolls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
Q: Can I use instant rice? A: Yes, you can use instant rice. If using instant rice, cook it according to package instructions before mixing it with the meat and other filling ingredients.
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a timeless classic that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. With their savory filling and rich tomato sauce, they are a testament to the beauty of homemade cooking. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, these cabbage rolls are sure to become a cherished favorite. Enjoy the process of creating this delicious dish and savor every bite of the flavorful result!
