Savor the rich, comforting flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls filled with seasoned ground meat, Rice, and onions, all wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce. This classic dish is hearty and satisfying, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner.
This Stuffed cabbage roll recipe is straightforward. It comprises cabbage leaves, ground beef, Rice, and condensed tomato soup. I’ve relied on this recipe for over twenty years, and it never disappoints! The rolls are cooked on the stovetop in a skillet for a quicker meal, though they can also be prepared using a slow cooker for a more hands-off approach.
Table of Contents
How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Rolls?
You can find the complete recipe below, but here’s a quick overview of the steps for making homemade cabbage rolls:
- Cook the Rice and soften the cabbage leaves in boiling water.
- Prepare the filling mixture.
- Stuff each cabbage leaf and roll them up tightly.
- Arrange the rolls in a skillet, covering them with condensed soup.
- Cover and cook, stirring and basting occasionally.
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Ingredients
To make this delicious stuffed cabbage roll recipe, you’ll need:
- White Rice serves as the foundation of the filling.
- Cabbage leaves: Eight large leaves are required to serve eight people.
- Ground beef: One pound of ground beef, or substitute with ground turkey if desired.
- Onion: Adds both flavor and texture when chopped into the filling.
- Egg: Provides moisture and helps bind the filling mixture together.
- Condensed tomato soup: A handy ingredient for the sauce.
- Seasonings: Simple salt and pepper to taste for the filling.
What do you eat with Stuffed Cabbage Rolls?
Mashed potatoes make a perfect side for cabbage rolls. Their smooth, creamy texture and subtle flavor perfectly complement the rich taste of the rolls. For added depth, try mixing in roasted garlic or a sprinkle of grated cheese to enhance the flavor.
Should you freeze or boil cabbage when preparing cabbage rolls?
To make stuffed cabbage leaves, there’s no need to cook the cabbage to soften it. Simply freezing the cabbage is a much easier method, and as a bonus, it avoids the pungent smell that comes from boiling.
What is Stuffed Cabbage Rolls sauce made of?
Sauce Ingredients:
Chicken Stock: 1/2 cup
Butter: 1/4 cup
White Onion: 1 large, chopped coarsely
Water: 1/4 cup
Garlic: 1 clove
Flour: 1/4 cup all-purpose
Tomato Sauce: 2 cups
Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup
Ingredients
- ⅔ cup water
- ⅓ cup uncooked white Rice
- Eight cabbage leaves
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ¼ cup chopped onion
- One egg, slightly beaten
- 1 (10.5 ounces) can of condensed tomato soup divided
- One teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Directions
Step 1: Bring water and Rice to a boil in a saucepan. Reduce to low heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the Rice is tender and the water is fully absorbed.
Step 2: Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil as the Rice cooks. Add cabbage leaves and cook for 2 to 4 minutes until softened, then drain.
Step 3: In a large bowl, mix the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked Rice, chopped onion, egg, two tablespoons of tomato soup, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Spoon two tablespoons of the beef mixture onto each cabbage leaf. Fold one end of the cabbage leaf over the filling, then roll it tightly while tucking in the sides to keep it secure.
Step 5: Place the cabbage rolls in a large skillet over medium heat. Pour the remaining tomato soup over the rolls, cover, and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer for about 40 minutes, occasionally stirring and basting with the sauce.
| Nutrition Facts (per serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 223 |
| Fat | 13g |
| Carbohydrates | 13g |
| Protein | 13g |
Helpful Tips for Making Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Before rolling the cabbage leaves, trim the thick part of the stem. The easiest method is to cut a V-shape at the base of each leaf with a paring knife to remove the tough rib. When placing the rolls in the baking dish, position them seam-side down to keep them intact while cooking.
The homemade tomato sauce for traditional cabbage rolls typically includes brown sugar and vinegar for a sweet and sour flavor. You can skip the brown sugar if you prefer, but it will alter the authenticity of the taste. For convenience, you can assemble the cabbage rolls in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 8 hours before baking.
Conclusion:
Stuffed cabbage rolls are a beloved comfort food that combines tender cabbage leaves with a flavorful mix of ingredients like ground beef, Rice, onions, and seasonings. Simmered in a savory tomato sauce, the rolls soak up the sauce’s tangy flavor, creating a warm, hearty, and satisfying meal.
This dish can be adapted to suit different dietary preferences and tastes. While ground beef is a popular choice, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Vegetarians can enjoy stuffed cabbage rolls by using a filling of grains, beans, mushrooms, or even lentils combined with herbs and spices. Rice can also vary; white Rice gives a classic texture, while brown Rice or quinoa can add a more nutritious twist.
One of the reasons stuffed cabbage rolls are so cherished is their versatility. They can be prepared using various methods, including simmering on the stovetop, baking in the oven, or using a slow cooker for a more hands-off approach. They are ideal for family gatherings, holidays, or simple weeknight dinners. These cabbage rolls can be made and stored in the fridge or freezer, offering a convenient, ready-to-reheat option whenever needed.
Stuffed cabbage rolls offer a rich blend of flavors and a sense of tradition and nostalgia. Many families have passed down their unique recipes through generations, each with its special touch, whether it’s a secret blend of spices or a variation in the sauce. This timeless dish brings warmth and joy to the dinner table, proving that comfort food can be simple and incredibly flavorful.
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