Savory Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

### **Instructions:**

**1. Prepare the Cabbage:**
Begin by carefully removing the leaves from the cabbage head. You may need to cut the core out slightly to help loosen the leaves. To make the leaves pliable, blanch the cabbage by placing the entire head in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, or until the outer leaves are tender. Alternatively, you can freeze the cabbage head for 24 hours and then thaw it to make peeling the leaves easier. Once the cabbage leaves are softened, set them aside to cool.

**2. Make the Meat Filling:**
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook, breaking it up as it browns. Once the meat is fully cooked, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat mixture, cooked rice, egg, thyme, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well incorporated.

**3. Assemble the Cabbage Rolls:**
Take a softened cabbage leaf and trim the thick vein at the bottom (where the stem was) so it’s easier to roll. Place a generous spoonful of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf. Fold in the sides of the cabbage and then roll it up tightly, securing the filling inside. Repeat the process with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.

**4. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:**
In a medium saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, sugar (if using), basil, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors together.

**5. Cook the Cabbage Rolls:**
Place the stuffed cabbage rolls in a large baking dish or Dutch oven. Pour the prepared tomato sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are fully covered. If necessary, add a little water or broth to ensure the rolls are submerged in the sauce.

Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 1 to 1.5 hours. The cabbage rolls should be tender and the flavors fully melded together. For a slightly crispier top, uncover the dish in the last 15 minutes of baking.

**6. Serve and Enjoy:**
Once the stuffed cabbage rolls are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve the cabbage rolls with the rich tomato sauce spooned over the top, and enjoy alongside a simple side salad, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

### **Why You’ll Love Savory Stuffed Cabbage Rolls**

– **Hearty and Comforting:** The combination of savory meat, tender cabbage, and rich tomato sauce makes these rolls the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings.
– **Flavors That Meld Together:** The long, slow cooking process allows all the flavors—especially the tomato sauce and seasoned meat filling—to blend into a satisfying, mouthwatering dish.
– **Make-Ahead Friendly:** Stuffed cabbage rolls can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator or frozen, making them a great option for meal prepping or preparing for a special event.
– **Nutrient-Packed:** Packed with lean protein from the meat, fiber from the cabbage, and additional nutrients from the herbs and spices, this dish is both filling and nutritious.

### **Tips for Success:**

– **Customizing the Filling:** Feel free to experiment with different meats or add-ins. Ground turkey, chicken, or lamb can all be used in place of beef. You can also add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
– **Rice Options:** You can use any type of rice you prefer, such as white, brown, or even quinoa for a healthier alternative. Make sure the rice is cooked before mixing it with the meat.
– **Tomato Sauce Variations:** For a different flavor profile, you can add a bit of smoked paprika to the tomato sauce for a smoky depth, or stir in some chopped fresh basil for extra freshness.
– **Freezing for Later:** These cabbage rolls freeze well! Simply freeze them before cooking, and when you’re ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a little extra cooking time.

### **Conclusion:**
Savory Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are the epitome of a wholesome, satisfying meal. With their tender cabbage wrapping, flavorful filling, and rich tomato sauce, they are perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a comforting family dinner. This dish is easy to customize, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a warm, cozy dinner or a make-ahead dish for a busy week, Savory Stuffed Cabbage Rolls will surely become a staple in your cooking repertoire.