Transport yourself back in time with these Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, a timeless dish that’s hearty, comforting, and bursting with flavor. Tender cabbage leaves are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, cooked rice, and aromatic seasonings, then simmered in a rich tomato sauce until perfectly tender. Follow this traditional recipe to recreate a beloved classic that’s sure to warm both hearts and bellies.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of green cabbage
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cabbage:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Carefully remove the core from the cabbage head and immerse the whole cabbage in the boiling water.
- Allow the cabbage to simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the outer leaves are tender and easy to remove.
- Gently remove the softened outer leaves from the cabbage and set them aside. Repeat until you have about 12 large leaves.
- Make the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked white rice, chopped onion, chopped parsley, minced garlic, beaten egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Fill the Cabbage Leaves:
- Place a cabbage leaf on a clean work surface and spoon a portion of the filling mixture onto the center of the leaf.
- Roll the leaf around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go, to form a cabbage roll. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling mixture.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, mix together the diced tomatoes, beef broth, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar to create the sauce.
- Assemble and Cook:
- Place the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in a large Dutch oven or baking dish.
- Pour the sauce over the cabbage rolls, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Cover the Dutch oven or baking dish with a lid or aluminum foil.
- Simmer:
- Place the Dutch oven or baking dish over medium heat and bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the cabbage rolls simmer gently for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
- Serve:
- Once cooked, carefully remove the cabbage rolls from the Dutch oven or baking dish and transfer them to a serving platter.
- Spoon some of the sauce over the cabbage rolls and garnish with additional chopped parsley, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of these Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls!
Cook’s Tips and Variations:
- Use Savoy Cabbage: If available, you can use savoy cabbage for a slightly sweeter and more tender alternative to green cabbage.
- Add Variety to Filling: Feel free to customize the filling with additional ingredients such as diced carrots, celery, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
- Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative for a vegetarian version of this dish.
- Make-Ahead Option: These cabbage rolls can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to cook. Simply prepare the sauce and store it separately. When ready to cook, pour the sauce over the cabbage rolls and proceed with the recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I freeze leftover cabbage rolls? Yes, you can freeze leftover cabbage rolls for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
- What can I serve with stuffed cabbage rolls? Stuffed cabbage rolls pair well with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Can I use a different type of vinegar? Yes, you can use white vinegar or red wine vinegar in place of apple cider vinegar if preferred. Adjust the amount to taste accordingly.
- How do I prevent the cabbage rolls from falling apart during cooking? Ensure that the cabbage leaves are softened enough before rolling to prevent tearing. You can also secure the rolls with toothpicks or kitchen twine if needed.
In conclusion, these Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a delightful reminder of timeless comfort food classics. With their tender cabbage leaves and flavorful filling, they’re sure to evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth with every bite. Whether enjoyed as a cozy family dinner or shared with friends, these cabbage rolls are a true crowd-pleaser that will never go out of style!
These Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With their tender cabbage leaves and flavorful filling, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Give them a try and enjoy a taste of nostalgia with every bite!
