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Cabbage Rolls

Delicious cabbage rolls filled with ground meat, rice, and spices, all covered in a tangy tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Eastern European
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cabbage Rolls
  • 1 large head cabbage Should have crisp leaves for better rolling.
  • 1 pound ground beef (or turkey) Can substitute with turkey or vegetarian ground meat.
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh herbs (like parsley or dill) for garnish

Method
 

Prepare the Cabbage
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the cabbage head into the boiling water.
  3. Boil for about 5-8 minutes until the outer leaves are softened.
  4. Carefully peel off the softened leaves and set aside. Repeat until you have about 12 leaves.
Mix the Filling
  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Mix until well combined.
Assemble the Rolls
  1. Lay a cabbage leaf on a flat surface.
  2. Place a couple of tablespoons of the filling at the base of the leaf.
  3. Fold the sides over the filling and roll from the base upwards to enclose the filling tightly.
  4. Repeat with all leaves.
Cook the Rolls
  1. In a large pot, pour half of the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes to cover the bottom.
  2. Arrange the cabbage rolls, seam side down, in the pot.
  3. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls and add water if needed to almost cover the rolls.
Simmer
  1. Cover the pot and bring to a gentle simmer.
  2. Let it cook for about 45 minutes until everything is cooked through and the flavors meld together.
Serve
  1. Carefully remove the rolls from the pot, garnish with fresh herbs, and enjoy your delicious cabbage rolls!

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Uncooked rolls can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of water or tomato sauce to retain moisture.