These stuffed cabbage rolls are a delicious and comforting dish, perfect for a cozy dinner at home. Filled with a flavorful mixture of ground meat, rice, and herbs, and simmered in a rich tomato sauce, they’re sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- 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. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the outer leaves are softened and easy to peel off. Remove the cabbage from the water and let it cool slightly.
- While the cabbage is cooling, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Stir in the cooked rice, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
- Carefully peel off the softened cabbage leaves, being careful not to tear them. Trim the thick center vein from each leaf to make them easier to roll.
- Place a spoonful of the meat and rice mixture onto the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly, tucking in the edges as you go. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
- In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Place the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish.
- Pour the remaining crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef or vegetable broth over the cabbage rolls.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the cabbage rolls are tender and cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove the foil and garnish the stuffed cabbage rolls with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
These stuffed cabbage rolls are even better the next day, so feel free to make them ahead of time and reheat them for an easy and satisfying meal.
