Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Overview:
This Stuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe is a harmonious blend of various culinary inspirations, carefully curated to tantalize your taste buds. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a total cooking time of 1 hour and 15 minutes, this dish strikes the perfect balance between convenience and flavor. Ideal for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a hearty, homemade meal that’s ready in under 4 hours, these cabbage rolls are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cabbage
- 3 tablespoons of butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups of tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup of water
- 1 teaspoon of allspice
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of pepper
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups of cooked rice
- 1 pound of ground beef
Instructions:
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Preparation:
- Begin by greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish, ensuring easy removal of the cabbage rolls once baked.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing it to reach the optimal temperature for baking perfection.
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Prepare the Cabbage:
- In a large pot, bring generously salted water to a boil.
- Core the cabbage, removing the tough center, and carefully place it in the pot.
- Cover the pot and allow the cabbage to boil gently for 4 to 5 minutes, until the leaves are tender yet still sturdy.
- Drain the cabbage well and set it aside to cool slightly.
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Prepare the Sauce:
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, water, allspice, salt, and pepper, creating a rich and flavorful sauce.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Assemble the Rolls:
- Carefully remove about 15 outer leaves from the cabbage, setting them aside for wrapping the rolls later.
- Coarsely chop the remaining cabbage and spread it evenly over the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the chopped cabbage with brown sugar, adding a touch of sweetness to complement the savory filling.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 3/4 of the prepared sauce with the cooked rice and ground beef, mixing until well combined.
- Divide the filling mixture into approximately 12 portions, shaping each into a compact roll and wrapping it snugly in a cabbage leaf.
- Arrange the cabbage rolls seam side down on top of the chopped cabbage in the baking dish, ensuring they fit snugly together.
- Spoon a small amount of the remaining sauce over each roll, infusing them with even more flavor.
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Bake to Perfection:
- Cover the top of the cabbage rolls with the reserved cabbage leaves, creating a protective layer that helps to retain moisture during baking.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the cabbage rolls for 1 hour, allowing them to cook until tender and the flavors meld together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions:
Once baked to golden perfection, serve these delectable Stuffed Cabbage Rolls piping hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a burst of color and flavor. Pair them with your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal that satisfies even the heartiest of appetites. These cabbage rolls also freeze exceptionally well, making them an ideal make-ahead option for busy days or as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this timeless dish, reminiscent of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones around the dinner table. 🥘🍴