Stuffed Cabbages Rolls

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cabbage

The first step to perfect cabbage rolls is softening the leaves without tearing them.

• Boil the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add 1 tbsp of salt.
• Core the Cabbage: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut around the cabbage stem to remove the core. This helps the leaves separate easily during boiling.
• Blanch the Cabbage: Submerge the whole cabbage in the boiling water. After 5-7 minutes, use tongs to peel off the softened outer leaves and transfer them to a plate. Continue peeling layer by layer as they soften. Aim for about 12-14 large, intact leaves.
• Cool and Trim: Allow the cabbage leaves to cool slightly, then trim the thick vein from the base of each leaf to make them more pliable for rolling.

2. Make the Filling

The filling is the heart of this dish, combining savory meat, tender rice, and aromatic spices.

• In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, dill, and parsley.
• Add the beaten egg and mix gently with your hands until everything is evenly combined. Avoid overworking the meat to keep the filling tender.

3. Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

• Lay the Leaf: Take one cabbage leaf and lay it flat, vein-side down.
• Add the Filling: Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the meat mixture near the base of the leaf.
• Fold and Roll: Fold the sides over the filling, then roll from the base to the top, forming a tight cylinder. Repeat with the remaining leaves.
• Layer the Smaller Leaves: If you have leftover smaller leaves, layer them at the bottom of the baking dish to prevent sticking and add extra flavor.

4. Prepare the Tomato Sauce

• Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until translucent.
• Simmer the Sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, sugar, oregano, thyme, and the bay leaf. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes to develop rich flavors. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

5. Cook the Cabbage Rolls

• Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Layer and Sauce: Pour a thin layer of tomato sauce at the bottom of a large baking dish. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down, tightly packed. Pour the remaining sauce over the top.
• Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours. The longer the rolls bake, the more tender and flavorful they become.

6. Serve and Garnish

• Let the rolls rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and a dollop of sour cream. Serve hot with lemon wedges or crusty bread.

Tips and Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with lentils, mushrooms, or a combination of quinoa and chickpeas.
• Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Add Smoked Meat: Layer smoked bacon or sausage pieces between the cabbage rolls for deeper flavor.
• Freezing and Reheating: To freeze, let the rolls cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

What to Serve with Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and smooth, they balance the tangy tomato sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables – Add roasted carrots, beets, or parsnips for a colorful side.
• Crusty Bread – Perfect for sopping up the rich sauce.
• Cucumber Salad – A refreshing side that complements the hearty dish.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are more than just a meal – they’re a nostalgic reminder of home-cooked dinners, family gatherings, and the magic of simple, hearty ingredients coming together. Whether you stick to tradition or add your own twist, this dish will always deliver warmth and comfort to the table.