Stuffed Cabbages Rolls

3. Assemble the Rolls

Take one cabbage leaf at a time, and place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each leaf. Fold the sides of the cabbage over the filling and then roll it tightly to enclose the filling, like a burrito. Repeat the process with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling until you’ve made all the rolls.

4. Prepare the Sauce

In a separate saucepan, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, and brown sugar (if using). Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Add in the vinegar, and season with salt and pepper to taste. This sauce will create a tangy and slightly sweet base that will cook the cabbage rolls and infuse them with flavor.

5. Cook the Cabbage Rolls

Place the stuffed cabbage rolls tightly in a large pot or Dutch oven, seam-side down. Pour the tomato sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are mostly covered. If necessary, add a bit more broth or water to cover the rolls completely. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, then cover the pot with a lid.

Let the cabbage rolls cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours. During this time, the flavors will meld together, and the cabbage will become wonderfully tender. Occasionally check on the rolls to ensure they’re not drying out, and add more broth or water if needed.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once the cabbage rolls are fully cooked and tender, remove them from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them hot with the sauce spooned over the top. Cabbage rolls are often enjoyed with a side of sour cream, crusty bread, or a simple salad.

Variations and Tips for Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

While the classic version of stuffed cabbage rolls uses meat and rice, you can easily make variations depending on your dietary preferences:

• Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: Replace the ground meat with a combination of sautéed vegetables (such as mushrooms, carrots, and spinach) and cooked lentils or beans for a hearty, meat-free filling.
• Gluten-Free: Use rice or quinoa in place of bread crumbs to ensure the dish is gluten-free.
• Add More Flavor: Experiment with different spices and herbs like dill, paprika, or even a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Sweet and Sour Twist: For a slightly different flavor profile, add more vinegar and a bit of honey or brown sugar to the sauce for a sweet and sour taste.

Why You’ll Love Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Stuffed cabbage rolls are more than just a meal—they’re a hearty, comforting dish that brings people together. They’re perfect for family gatherings, meal prep, and even holiday celebrations. The balance of flavors—from the tender cabbage to the savory filling and tangy tomato sauce—makes each bite absolutely satisfying.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, stuffed cabbage rolls are a recipe you’ll return to again and again. They’re customizable, easy to make, and sure to impress anyone who tastes them.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed cabbage rolls may have ancient roots, but they remain as beloved as ever for their comfort and flavor. The rich combination of tender cabbage and savory filling wrapped in a tangy tomato sauce is hard to beat. With this simple recipe, you can recreate this classic dish at home and share it with your loved ones for a truly memorable meal. So why not give it a try and see for yourself why stuffed cabbage rolls have been a cherished dish for generations?