When it comes to comforting weeknight dinners, stuffed cabbage rolls hold a special place in my heart. This recipe combines tender cabbage leaves with a savory filling of ground beef, rice, and spices, all topped with rich tomato sauce. There’s something both nostalgic and satisfying about sinking your teeth into these flavorful bundles. Whether you’re revamping family classics or trying something new for a cozy gathering, these stuffed cabbage rolls are sure to impress.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to whip up stuffed cabbage rolls. For starters, they’re incredibly versatile and can easily adapt to whichever ingredients you have on hand. This dish is also a fantastic way to sneak veggies into your meal, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Perfect for those busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests at a family brunch, this recipe is both budget-friendly and satisfying.
"These cabbage rolls were a huge hit at dinner last night! A comforting dish done right – my family gobbled them up!" – Sarah, satisfied home cook.
The cooking process explained
If you’re new to stuffed cabbage rolls, don’t fret! This process is straightforward, making it a great choice for cooks of all levels. First, you’ll soften the cabbage leaves to make them pliable. Then, you’ll mix a filling of ground beef, rice, and aromatics, which you’ll wrap snugly in the cabbage. After layering the rolls in a pot with tomato sauce, a gentle simmer will bring all those flavors together beautifully. It’ll take about 60-75 minutes, but trust me, the wait is worth it!
What you’ll need
For this delicious recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 large green cabbage
- 450 g (1 lb) ground beef
- 1/2 cup uncooked rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
You can easily swap the ground beef for ground turkey or make a vegetarian version using lentils or quinoa for the filling.
