Introduction:
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, with their hearty blend of savory meat and tender cabbage, evoke a sense of comfort and tradition in many households. This classic dish, known for its robust flavors and satisfying texture, transforms humble ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. Whether prepared for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these rolls promise to fill the air with irresistible aromas and bring warmth to the table. Embracing the essence of homemade cooking, they invite us to savor each bite, reminiscing about generations past who passed down recipes like these, rich with love and flavor.
Ingredients
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes (undrained)
- 15-ounce can tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 1 pound ground beef (90% lean)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves (divided use)
- 1 egg
- 1 head cabbage
- Cooking spray
Instructions
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Mix in the brown sugar and red wine vinegar, bringing the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together into a rich and aromatic sauce.
For the Cabbage Rolls:
While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully place the whole cabbage head into the boiling water and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the outer leaves become pliable. Remove the cabbage from the water and gently peel off 12 large leaves, setting them aside to cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and half of the chopped parsley. Crack the egg into the bowl and add 1/2 cup of the prepared tomato sauce. Mix everything together until well combined.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lay each cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Use a knife to trim down the thick center rib of each leaf, making it easier to roll.
Place a generous scoop (about 1/3 cup) of the meat mixture in the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly, starting from the base of the leaf to the tip. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and meat mixture.
Lightly coat the bottom of a 9″x13″ baking dish with cooking spray. Spread half of the remaining tomato sauce evenly across the bottom of the dish.
Arrange the rolled cabbage leaves, seam side down, in the baking dish. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top of the cabbage rolls, ensuring they are well covered.
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 60-90 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the internal temperature of the meat reaches 160°F (71°C).
Once cooked, remove the foil from the baking dish and sprinkle the remaining chopped parsley over the cabbage rolls for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
Conclusion:
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls embody more than just a meal—they represent a culinary journey through time, where simple ingredients transform into a dish that brings joy and comfort to those who gather around the table. Each bite of tender cabbage filled with seasoned ground beef and aromatic tomato sauce tells a story of tradition and family heritage, passed down through generations.
As the aroma of simmering tomato sauce fills the kitchen and the rolls bake to perfection in the oven, anticipation builds for the moment when these comforting flavors are finally enjoyed together. Whether served as a main course for a festive gathering or as a comforting weeknight dinner, Stuffed Cabbage Rolls offer a taste of nostalgia and home-cooked goodness that transcends mere sustenance.
Gather your loved ones, set the table with care, and share in the warmth and joy that these Stuffed Cabbage Rolls bring. Celebrate the art of homemade cooking and create memories that will linger long after the last bite is savored. With each roll, savor the flavors of tradition and the love that goes into preparing meals that truly nourish both body and soul. Enjoy this timeless dish and the connections it fosters with those you hold dear.
