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Stuffed cabbage rolls are a classic comfort food enjoyed in many cultures around the world. This dish features tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of ground beef and rice, baked in a flavorful tomato sauce. It’s hearty, nutritious, and perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Preparation Steps
Start by carefully removing the core from the cabbage and blanching the whole head in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until the leaves become pliable. Gently peel off the outer leaves and set aside. Repeat until you have enough leaves for stuffing, usually about 8-10.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Place a cabbage leaf on a flat surface. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the meat mixture onto the center of the leaf. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly, like a burrito. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Carefully place the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down and brown them slightly on all sides, about 5 minutes.
Arrange the browned cabbage rolls in a baking dish. In a bowl, mix the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and a cup of water. Pour this sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are mostly covered.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour, until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve stuffed cabbage rolls hot, with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. They also taste great with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill. This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.