Cabbage rolls, also known as stuffed cabbage, are a delicious dish made with cooked cabbage leaves wrapped around a filling of meat, rice, and various seasonings. Here’s a basic recipe to make cabbage rolls:
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 pound (450 grams) ground meat (beef, pork, or a mixture)
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14 ounces/400 grams) tomato sauce
– 1 can (14 ounces/400 grams) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil.
Instructions:
1. Start by boiling a large pot of water. Carefully remove the outer leaves of the cabbage, one by one, and blanch them in the boiling water for about 2-3 minutes, or until they become pliable. Remove the leaves and set them aside to cool. Repeat this process until you have enough leaves to make the desired number of cabbage rolls.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, onion, garlic, parsley, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Take one cabbage leaf and place a portion of the meat mixture onto the center of the leaf. Roll the leaf tightly, tucking in the sides as you go, similar to rolling a burrito. Repeat this process with the remaining cabbage leaves and meat mixture.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. In a large oven-safe pot or casserole dish, spread a layer of diced tomatoes and tomato sauce on the bottom. Arrange the cabbage rolls on top of the sauce, seam side down, in a single layer. Continue layering the rolls until all are used.
6. Pour the beef or vegetable broth over the cabbage rolls. Drizzle olive oil over the top.
7. Cover the pot or dish with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the cabbage rolls are tender and the flavors have melded together.
8. Once done, remove from the oven and let the cabbage rolls cool slightly before serving. You can garnish them with additional parsley if desired.
Cabbage rolls are often served with a side of mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a fresh salad. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish!