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🧂 Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 2 cups tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon vinegar (optional, to balance flavors)
👩🍳 Instructions
- Prepare the cabbage:
- Bring a large pot of water to boil. Remove the core from the cabbage and carefully separate the leaves.
- Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2–3 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
- Make the filling:
- In a large bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the rolls:
- Place a spoonful of filling onto the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold in the sides and roll tightly.
- Prepare the sauce:
- In a saucepan, combine tomato sauce, brown sugar, and vinegar. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cook the rolls:
- Place cabbage rolls seam-side down in a large pot or Dutch oven. Pour tomato sauce over the rolls, cover, and simmer on low heat for 45–60 minutes, until the meat is cooked through and flavors meld.
- Serve:
- Spoon extra sauce over the rolls and serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Pair with mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles for a hearty meal.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce.
- A dollop of sour cream on top adds a creamy, tangy touch.
💡 Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
- Choose large cabbage leaves: Easier to wrap and hold the filling.
- Don’t overcook the cabbage initially: It will cook further while simmering with the sauce.
- Make ahead: Stuffed cabbage rolls taste even better the next day, making them perfect for meal prep.
- Freeze for later: These rolls freeze beautifully; just reheat in sauce before serving.
🥰 Final Thoughts
Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are more than a meal — they’re a tradition. Warm, hearty, and full of flavor, they bring comfort and nostalgia to any dinner table.
From the first tender bite to the last spoonful of rich tomato sauce, this dish is a celebration of family, heritage, and timeless home cooking. It’s a recipe that once tried, becomes a cherished favorite for years to come.
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