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Instructions
1. Prepare the Cabbage
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the head in the boiling water.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then peel off the softened outer leaves. Repeat until you have about 12–14 large leaves. Set aside.
2. Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, paprika, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Assemble the Cabbage Rolls
- Place a cabbage leaf on a flat surface, vein-side down.
- Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the filling onto the center of the leaf.
- Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
4. Prepare the Tomato Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, sugar, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and broth. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Cook the Stuffed Cabbages
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish.
- Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls.
- Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Cabbage: Green cabbage is traditional, but Savoy cabbage is a great alternative for its delicate texture.
- Parboil Gently: Softening the leaves makes them pliable and easy to roll.
- Double the Sauce: For extra sauciness, prepare an additional batch of tomato sauce.
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Use lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based meat alternatives instead of ground meat.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling.
- Grain-Free: Substitute cauliflower rice for the cooked rice.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dish: Serve with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles for a hearty meal.
- Bread: A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a lighter accompaniment.
Make It Ahead
Stuffed cabbages can be assembled up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply bake them when you’re ready to serve. They also freeze beautifully, making them a great meal-prep option for busy weeks.
Conclusion
The Best Stuffed Cabbages are a delicious and comforting dish that brings together classic flavors in a heartwarming package. With its tender cabbage leaves, savory filling, and flavorful sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday or a simple family dinner, it’s a dish that always hits the spot.
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