Image Source from ullajolley

The Best Ever Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Cabbage rolls, a hearty dish with roots in various cuisines around the world, are beloved for their comforting layers of flavour and satisfying fillings. Whether you’re seeking a nostalgic family recipe or something new to impress your dinner guests, this Best Ever Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe delivers a delightful combination of tender cabbage wrapped around a savoury filling.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 500g minced beef (or a mix of beef and pork for added flavour)
• 100g uncooked rice (preferably long grain)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A handful of fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Cabbage:

• 1 large head of green cabbage

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 400g can of chopped tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato puree
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and gently peel off the outer leaves. You’ll need about 12-15 leaves for this recipe. Blanch the leaves in the boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until they are softened but still firm enough to handle. Drain and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the cabbage is cooling, prepare the filling. In a skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent. Allow to cool slightly, then combine in a large mixing bowl with the minced meat, uncooked rice, egg, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. If using, stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Place a generous spoonful of the meat mixture at the base of the leaf. Fold the sides over the filling, then carefully roll it up from the bottom to enclose the filling completely. Repeat this process with all the remaining cabbage leaves until the filling is used up.

Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix the chopped tomatoes, tomato puree, sugar, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. This vibrant sauce will enhance the flavour of the cabbage rolls as they cook.

Step 5: Assemble and Cook

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large baking dish, spread a ladleful of tomato sauce across the bottom. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the dish tightly with foil.

Bake in the preheated oven for 60-75 minutes, until the rolls are cooked through and the rice is tender. You can remove the foil for the last 15 minutes of baking to allow the top to caramelise slightly.

Step 6: Serve

Once cooked, remove the cabbage rolls from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, garnished with extra chopped parsley if desired, alongside crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes for a truly comforting meal.

Conclusion

This Best Ever Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe is not just about the ingredients; it’s about the warmth and love that goes into creating a dish cherished through generations. Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these stuffed cabbage rolls are sure to please palates and fill hearts alike. So, gather your loved ones, share stories, and enjoy this beautiful dish that embraces the essence of home-cooked comfort. Enjoy!

No items listed in the response.