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Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
Begin by prepping the cabbage leaves. Carefully cut out the core of the cabbage head with a sharp knife, creating a hole in the center. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and gently place the whole cabbage into the pot. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until the outer leaves are soft and pliable.
Once the leaves are soft enough to handle, carefully remove them from the water. Let them cool slightly, then carefully peel off the outer leaves, trying to keep them intact. Set aside 10-12 large leaves to use for the rolls.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, egg, parmesan cheese, dried basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together thoroughly until it’s well combined. The mixture should be slightly moist but firm enough to roll.
Step 3: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls
Now it’s time to roll up the cabbage! Lay one cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Trim off any thick veins to make it easier to roll. Place a generous scoop of the filling in the center of the cabbage leaf.
Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top, similar to rolling a burrito. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
While you’re assembling the rolls, prepare the marinara sauce. In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the marinara sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Cook the Cabbage Rolls
In a large baking dish, spread a small amount of marinara sauce on the bottom to prevent the cabbage rolls from sticking. Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish, fitting them snugly together.
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the cabbage rolls, covering them completely. If needed, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the cabbage rolls are cooked through and the sauce is bubbly and slightly caramelized. For an extra touch of flavor, you can uncover the dish during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cabbage rolls are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Italian stuffed cabbage rolls are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides, including:
- Garlic Bread: A crusty slice of garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to scoop up the delicious marinara sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make for a hearty side to pair with these cabbage rolls.
- Side Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the rolls.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or brussels sprouts, for a wholesome meal.
Why You’ll Love Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls:
- Comforting and Hearty: This dish is filling and perfect for a family dinner.
- Flavorful: The seasoned meat filling and savory marinara sauce create a delicious balance of flavors.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the filling and sauce based on your preferences.
- Great for Leftovers: These cabbage rolls taste even better the next day, making them perfect for meal prep.
Conclusion:
Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are the perfect dish for anyone who loves Italian comfort food with a twist. Tender cabbage wraps a flavorful meat and rice filling, all baked in a savory marinara sauce. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these cabbage rolls are sure to be a hit. Try this recipe for your next family dinner and enjoy the hearty, comforting flavors of Italy in your own kitchen!
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