Tangy Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Juice and Mint

Best Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that combines comforting ingredients with a touch of tang, then this Best Stuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe is perfect for you. Passed down through generations, this recipe was handed to me by my mother, who originally learned it during the World War years. Instead of using typical tomato sauce, we opt for tomato juice, giving the dish a subtle tang that is complemented by the addition of lemon juice and mint leaves. The flavors come together beautifully, making this a dish that is truly worth trying.

Recipe Information:

Ingredients:

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cabbage: Begin by carefully removing the hard core from the cabbage. To soften the cabbage leaves, place the whole cabbage head in boiling water for a few minutes or until the leaves become pliable. Once softened, peel off the leaves gently, ensuring they don’t tear. You will need about 14-16 leaves, depending on their size.

2. Line the Baking Dish: Prepare a casserole or baking dish by lining it with two cabbage leaves. These will form the base for your rolls and prevent them from sticking to the dish.

3. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, rice, lemon juice, dried mint, tomato juice (reserve 1/2 cup for later), salt, pepper, and allspice. Mix everything well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. The mixture should be slightly moist, but not too wet. Set aside the minced garlic for now.

4. Stuff the Cabbage Leaves: Take one cabbage leaf and place a heaping tablespoon of the filling mixture in the center. Fold the sides of the leaf over the mixture and roll it tightly, like you would a burrito. Repeat this step for each leaf until all the filling is used up.

5. Arrange the Rolls in the Dish: Place each stuffed cabbage roll seam-side down on top of the lined cabbage leaves in your prepared baking dish. Arrange the rolls snugly so they fit well.

6. Add Flavor and Moisture: Add the minced garlic clove, the reserved tomato juice, and 1/2 cup of water to the dish. This will create a flavorful sauce that will cook the rolls perfectly. You can sprinkle a little more salt and pepper on top for extra seasoning.

7. Bake the Cabbage Rolls: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 to 60 minutes. The rolls should be tender and cooked through, with the flavors melded together beautifully.

8. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven. Let the cabbage rolls rest for a few minutes before serving. They pair wonderfully with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad.

Tips for the Best Cabbage Rolls:

• Cabbage Selection: Choose a large cabbage head with loose leaves to make rolling easier. If the leaves are too tough, steam them briefly until they become pliable.

• Customize the Filling: You can modify the filling by adding chopped onions, grated carrots, or even cooked quinoa for a lighter twist.

• Freezing: These cabbage rolls freeze well! After baking, allow them to cool, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer. Reheat by baking at 325°F for 20-30 minutes.

• Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling or sprinkle some on top before baking.

This recipe for Best Stuffed Cabbage Rolls offers the perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors. The use of tomato juice adds a lovely depth of flavor, while the lemon juice and mint provide a refreshing zing. It’s a great dish for a family dinner or for making ahead and freezing for later.