Classic stuffed cabbage is a cozy dish filled with seasoned meat and rice, all wrapped in soft cabbage leaves. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
These little bundles are so satisfying that they’ll make you forget about just having one. Trust me, portion control takes a vacation with this one! 😂
I love serving them with a drizzle of tomato sauce on top. It makes them even yummier and perfect for sharing with family or friends. Enjoy the comfort!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: A large green cabbage is perfect for this recipe, but savoy or napa cabbage works too. They’re softer and easier to roll! If you’re short on time, you could use shredded cabbage but the texture will be different.
Meat: Ground beef is my go-to, but feel free to use all beef or mix in ground turkey for a lighter option. For a meat-free version, try using lentils or quinoa instead of meat.
Rice: White rice gives a nice texture, but brown rice adds more fiber. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use quinoa instead. Just make sure it’s cooked first.
Tomato Sauce: Store-bought tomato sauce works just fine! You could also use marinara or crushed tomatoes for more richness. If you want a kick, add some diced tomatoes with green chilies.
How Do You Roll Cabbage Leaves Without Breaking Them?
Rolling cabbage leaves can be tricky, but there’s a secret to it! First, make sure to blanch the leaves until they’re soft but not mushy. Here’s how:
- Carefully peel off the leaves and trim the thick veins so they bend easily.
- Place the filling at the base of the leaf—don’t overfill! Roll it tightly but gently, tucking in the sides as you go like wrapping a burrito.
- If any leaves tear, don’t worry! You can wrap them in a bit of foil or just cover them with sauce when cooking.
Just take your time, and you’ll get it! Enjoy the rolling process as part of your cooking fun!
Classic Stuffed Cabbage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 1 large green cabbage
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1/2 lb (225 g) ground pork (optional, you can use all beef)
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or marjoram (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and another 1 to 1.5 hours to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at around 2 hours for the entire dish—from start to enjoying those delicious cabbage rolls on your plate!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves:
First, bring a large pot of water to boil. Carefully core the cabbage and gently peel off the large outer leaves. Blanch the cabbage leaves in the boiling water for about 2-3 minutes—they should be pliable, but not mushy! Drain them and set aside to cool. If you find that the thick vein at the bottom of each leaf is too much, just trim it down to make rolling easier.
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, parsley, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This filling is what makes the rolls extra tasty!
3. Form the Rolls:
Take about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling and place it near the base of each cabbage leaf. Now, fold in the sides and roll it up tightly, just like you would with a burrito. Keep going until you’ve used all the leaves and filling!
4. Prepare the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the tomato sauce with the broth. If you like, add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar for a little extra tang. Don’t forget to season with a pinch of salt and pepper!
5. Cook the Stuffed Cabbage:
In a large skillet or deep pot, heat the oil over medium heat. If you want to add some extra flavor, you can sauté a bit of chopped onion in the oil before adding the rolls. Place the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in the pot, then pour the sauce mixture over them, ensuring they are well covered.
6. Simmer and Cook:
Bring everything to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and cook for about 1 to 1.5 hours. During this time, the cabbage will soften and the filling will cook through. Just remember to give the pot a little shake or a stir now and then to avoid sticking.
7. Serve:
When your cabbage rolls are ready, carefully remove them and place on serving plates. Spoon some of that delicious sauce over the top and sprinkle with additional chopped parsley for a lovely finish.
Enjoy your warm, comforting classic stuffed cabbage rolls! They’re perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Can I Use Regular Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! While white rice is traditional, you can use other varieties like brown rice or even wild rice if you prefer. Just make sure that any rice you use is cooked beforehand!
How Can I Store Leftover Stuffed Cabbage?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze stuffed cabbage rolls for up to 3 months! Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Pork?
If you prefer not to use pork, you can simply use more ground beef or mix in ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. The flavor will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely! For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with lentils, quinoa, or a mix of sautéed vegetables and beans. You can also use veggie broth for the sauce to keep it plant-based.
