Old Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

For the Cabbage Rolls:

 

• • 1 large head of green cabbage
  • 1 pound ground beef or a mixture of beef and pork
  • 1 cup cooked white rice

• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 egg
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Tomato Sauce:

• • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (14 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Cooking:

• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage head, and place the whole cabbage in the boiling water.
3. As the outer leaves soften, carefully remove them with tongs, one by one. This process might take about 5-7 minutes. Place the softened leaves on a plate to cool.
4. Continue this process until you have about 12 large cabbage leaves. Trim the tough center vein from each leaf to make them easier to roll.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it forms a cohesive filling.

Step 3: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

1. 1. Take a cabbage leaf and place a scoop of the meat and rice filling at the base (the stem end) of the leaf.

1. Roll the leaf tightly over the filling, tucking in the sides as you go, to create a neat roll. Repeat this process with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

1. In a separate bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, brown sugar, white vinegar, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the sauce is well combined.

Step 5: Cook the Cabbage Rolls

1. 1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   2. Place the cabbage rolls, seam side down, in the pot.
   3. Pour the tomato sauce mixture over the cabbage rolls, ensuring they are fully covered by the sauce.

1. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the cabbage rolls are tender and the filling is cooked through.

Step 6: Serve

1. Carefully remove the cabbage rolls from the pot using a slotted spoon, and place them on serving plates.
2. Spoon some of the tomato sauce over the cabbage rolls.
3. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
4. Serve hot and enjoy this classic comfort food.

Tips and Variations:

• • Vegetarian Version: Substitute the meat with a mixture of cooked rice, sautéed mushrooms, onions, and your favorite seasonings for a vegetarian option.
  • Cabbage Varieties: While green cabbage is commonly used, you can also make stuffed cabbage rolls with savoy cabbage for a slightly different flavor and texture.
  • Spices: Add your favorite spices and herbs to the filling for extra flavor. Common options include thyme, oregano, and bay leaves.
  • Serving Suggestion: Serve stuffed cabbage rolls with a dollop of sour cream for a creamy contrast.

• Make-Ahead: Stuffed cabbage rolls taste even better the next day, so feel free to prepare them in advance and reheat them before serving.

Conclusion:

Old-fashioned stuffed cabbage rolls are a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed by generations. This recipe combines the tender sweetness of cabbage leaves with a savory meat and rice filling, all enveloped in a rich and tangy tomato sauce. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this timeless dish is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Customize it with your favorite variations and enjoy the comforting flavors of tradition.