Delicious Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

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Delicious Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Introduction

Stuffed cabbage rolls are one of those dishes that carry warmth, history, and tradition in every bite. Tender cabbage leaves are wrapped around a savory filling of meat, rice, herbs, and spices, then simmered in a rich tomato sauce until melt-in-your-mouth tender. Popular across Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and even parts of Asia, this dish is hearty, wholesome, and perfect for feeding a family or entertaining guests.

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

For the Cabbage Rolls

  • 1 large green cabbage (about 2–3 lbs)
  • 1 lb ground beef (or pork, chicken, or a mix)
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg (to bind)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt

For the Tomato Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (to balance acidity)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

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.
  3. Place the whole cabbage in boiling water and simmer for about 8–10 minutes, gently peeling off the leaves as they loosen.
  4. Drain and set leaves aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Filling

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Mix until well blended but do not overwork.

Step 3: Roll the Cabbage

  1. Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a board.
  2. Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling at the center.
  3. Fold in the sides and roll tightly (like a burrito).
  4. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet.
  2. Sauté onion and garlic until softened.
  3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Cook the Rolls

Stovetop Method:

  • Place a layer of sauce at the bottom of a large pot or Dutch oven.
  • Arrange rolls seam-side down.
  • Pour remaining sauce over top.
  • Cover and simmer on low heat for 1.5–2 hours.

Oven Method:

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Place cabbage rolls in a baking dish, cover with sauce, then cover tightly with foil.
  • Bake for 1.5 hours until tender.

Methods

  • Parboiling cabbage softens leaves for easy rolling.
  • Layering sauce prevents sticking and enhances flavor.
  • Slow cooking ensures tenderness and full flavor development.

History

Stuffed cabbage rolls are deeply rooted in culinary traditions across Europe and the Middle East. Known as golabki (Poland), sarma (Balkans), holubtsi (Ukraine), and malfouf mahshi (Middle East), this dish symbolizes family, gatherings, and comfort. Every region has its own twist, from spices to fillings.

Benefits

  • Balanced meal – combines protein, carbs, and vegetables.
  • Make-ahead friendly – tastes even better the next day.
  • Freezer-friendly – perfect for batch cooking.
  • Versatile – fillings can be adapted with beef, lamb, chicken, or vegetarian options.

Formation (Serving Ideas)

  • Serve hot with extra sauce spooned on top.
  • Pair with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.
  • Add a dollop of sour cream for richness.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or dill.

Conclusion

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a labor of love and tradition. Each roll is a little bundle of comfort, carrying the flavors of home, warmth, and history. Whether made for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, they never fail to satisfy.

Lovers of This Recipe

  • Families – hearty, shareable meal.
  • Traditional cooks – celebrating heritage and culture.
  • Comfort food lovers – cozy and satisfying.
  • Meal preppers – perfect for storing and reheating.

Final Thought

This delicious stuffed cabbage rolls recipe proves that simple, humble ingredients can create something extraordinary. It’s a dish that travels through time and across cultures, always bringing people together.

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