Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

## **Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Stuffed Cabbage Rolls**

### **1. Prepare the Cabbage**
Start by removing the outer leaves of the cabbage and cutting out the core. You’ll need to blanch the cabbage leaves to make them pliable for rolling.

– **Blanch the cabbage**: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully lower the whole cabbage head into the boiling water for about **2-3 minutes** to soften the leaves. Use tongs to gently remove the cabbage and let it cool for a few minutes. Once it’s cool enough to handle, carefully peel off the leaves, trying to keep them intact.
– **Trim the thick veins**: Some cabbage leaves might have a thick vein running through the center. Use a sharp knife to trim the tough vein so the leaves can roll more easily.

You’ll need **about 12-14 large leaves** for the rolls. Set them aside.

### **2. Make the Filling**
In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients to make the filling:

– **Ground meat** (beef, pork, or turkey)
– **Cooked rice** (make sure it’s cooled)
– **Onion** (finely chopped)
– **Egg**
– **Garlic powder**
– **Dried thyme**
– **Salt and pepper**

Mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat mixture to keep the filling tender.

### **3. Assemble the Cabbage Rolls**
– Place a cabbage leaf on a clean surface, with the stem side facing up.
– Spoon about **2-3 tablespoons of the meat mixture** into the center of the cabbage leaf.
– Fold in the sides of the leaf over the filling, then carefully roll the cabbage tightly from the bottom to the top, ensuring the filling stays inside.
– Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling until all of the cabbage rolls are assembled.

### **4. Make the Tomato Sauce**
In a separate bowl, combine the **crushed tomatoes**, **tomato sauce**, **sugar**, **lemon juice**, **oregano**, **paprika**, **salt**, and **pepper**. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

### **5. Cook the Cabbage Rolls**
– In a large, deep pot or Dutch oven, place a thin layer of the prepared tomato sauce on the bottom of the pan.
– Carefully arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam side down in the pot, fitting them tightly together to prevent them from unrolling during cooking.
– Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the cabbage rolls, covering them completely. If needed, add a bit of water to ensure the rolls are submerged.
– Cover the pot with a lid and bring the sauce to a simmer. Once it begins to simmer, lower the heat to medium-low and let the cabbage rolls cook for about **1 to 1.5 hours**, until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through. Occasionally check on the rolls and spoon some sauce over the tops to keep them moist.

### **6. Serve and Enjoy**
Once the cabbage rolls are fully cooked, carefully remove them from the pot using tongs or a slotted spoon. Serve them hot with extra sauce poured over the top, and garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, if desired.

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## **Tips for Making Perfect Stuffed Cabbage Rolls**

– **Don’t Overstuff**: Be careful not to overstuff the cabbage rolls with filling. This can make them harder to roll and result in them breaking open during cooking. A small to medium amount of filling is perfect for each roll.
– **Add a Little Acid**: The sugar and lemon juice in the sauce balance out the acidity of the tomatoes. If you prefer a bit more tang, add a splash of vinegar or a few more squeezes of lemon juice.
– **Use a Dutch Oven**: If you have a Dutch oven, it’s perfect for cooking stuffed cabbage rolls because it distributes heat evenly and can hold the rolls snugly in one layer.
– **Make Ahead and Freeze**: You can make these stuffed cabbage rolls in advance and freeze them. Simply assemble and roll the cabbage rolls, but don’t cook them. Freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, thaw the rolls overnight in the fridge, then cook as directed.

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## **Serving Suggestions**

– **Mashed Potatoes**: Serve these stuffed cabbage rolls with creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal. The rich tomato sauce is perfect for spooning over the potatoes.
– **Crusty Bread**: A thick slice of crusty bread is perfect for sopping up the extra tomato sauce.
– **Green Salad**: A fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the cabbage rolls.
– **Pickles**: Serve with a side of tangy pickles for some acidity that complements the hearty cabbage rolls.

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## **Final Thoughts**

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a classic, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner, a holiday meal, or as leftovers for the next day, these tender rolls filled with savory meat and rice are sure to be a hit. The rich tomato sauce adds depth and flavor, making this dish even more irresistible.

Don’t hesitate to make a double batch—the leftovers are even better the next day, and these rolls freeze beautifully for a future meal. So grab a head of cabbage and get ready to enjoy this comforting, flavorful dish that everyone will love!

Happy cooking! 🍽️🌿🍅