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Cabbage Roll

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Cabbage Rolls are a hearty, old-fashioned comfort food featuring tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a savory blend of seasoned meat and rice, then simmered in a rich tomato sauce until melt-in-your-mouth delicious. This cabbage rolls recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners, make-ahead meals, or special gatherings, with flavors inspired by traditional Eastern European cooking.

Ingredients

  • 1 large head of cabbage
  • 1 lb ground beef or pork (or a mix)
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Remove core from cabbage; boil whole head for 5–8 minutes until outer leaves are pliable. Peel leaves as they soften, returning head to boiling water if needed.
  2. In a bowl, combine ground meat, rice, onion, garlic, egg, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling in the center of each leaf; fold sides in and roll tightly.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven; stir in tomato sauce, broth, and tomato paste.
  5. Arrange rolls seam-side down in the pot; spoon sauce over each roll.
  6. Cover and simmer on low for 1½–2 hours, until cabbage is tender and filling is cooked through.

Notes

  • Swap beef/pork for turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Add herbs like parsley or dill to the filling for extra flavor.
  • For vegetarian rolls, use lentils and vegetables instead of meat.
  • Can be baked in a covered dish with sauce at 350°F (175°C) for about 90 minutes.
  • Rolls freeze well for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/cabbage-roll/