The Ultimate Cabbage Rolls Recipe: A Comforting Classic

Cabbage rolls, also known as stuffed cabbage or golabki, are a beloved dish in many cultures, particularly in Eastern European cuisine. These hearty rolls consist of tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of meat, rice , and spices, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to bring family and friends together around the dinner table. In this article, we will explore a classic cabbage rolls recipe, tips for preparation, and some variations to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cabbage (about 3 lbs)
• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato soup (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• Sour cream (for serving, optional)

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Cabbage:
   • Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head in the boiling water. Boil for about 2-4 minutes until the outer leaves are tender.
   • Remove the cabbage and let it cool slightly. Peel off the softened leaves and set them aside. You may need to return the cabbage to the boiling water to soften the inner leaves.
2. Make the Filling:
   • In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, uncooked rice, diced onion, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Assemble the Rolls:
   • Take a cabbage leaf and place about 2 tablespoons of the filling at the base of the leaf. Fold in the sides and roll it up tightly, starting from the base. Repeat this process until all the filling is used.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a separate bowl, mix the tomato sauce and tomato soup (if using). You can also add a bit of water or broth to thin it out if desired.
5. Cook the Cabbage Rolls:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish, packing them tightly together. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are well covered.
   • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 1 hour. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes to allow the tops to brown slightly.

Tips for Success

• Freezing Cabbage: If you want to save time, you can freeze the whole head of cabbage. When you’re ready to make the rolls, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. The leaves will be pliable and easy to roll without boiling.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment with the filling. You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or even swap out the meat for a vegetarian option using lentils or quinoa.
• Serving Suggestions: Cabbage rolls are delicious on their own, but they can be served with a dollop of sour cream or a side of crusty bread. They also pair well with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.

READ MORE: Corned Beef and Cabbage