Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe: A Timeless Comfort Food

Name: Classic Cabbage Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: PT-481038H32M26S
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce; 1 can (14.5 ounces) petite diced tomatoes; 1 tablespoon cider vinegar; 1 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 large head green cabbage; 1/2 pound ground pork sausage; 1/2 pound ground beef; 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 egg; 3/4 cup Minute Rice or long-grain parboiled white rice; 1 tablespoon dried parsley; 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Cabbage rolls, a cherished dish in many households, offer a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that have stood the test of time. This classic recipe features tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a savory meat mixture and baked in a rich tomato sauce. Whether you’re revisiting a family favorite or exploring this dish for the first time, this comprehensive guide will walk you through each step to ensure your cabbage rolls turn out perfectly.

Ingredients: The Key to Flavorful Cabbage Rolls

For the Sauce:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 ounces) petite diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
1 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cabbage Rolls:

1 large head green cabbage
1/2 pound ground pork sausage
1/2 pound ground beef
1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
3/4 cup Minute Rice or long-grain parboiled white rice
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon paprika

Instructions: Crafting the Perfect Cabbage Rolls

1. Prepare the Cabbage

Start by bringing a large stockpot of water to a rolling boil. Gently place the entire head of cabbage into the boiling water and cook for 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it softens the cabbage leaves, making them pliable for rolling.

Once the cabbage is boiled, remove it from the pot and transfer it to a colander to drain and cool. After it has cooled enough to handle, cut about 1/2 inch off the stem end of the cabbage. Carefully peel away 12 leaves, ensuring they remain intact. Use a sharp knife to cut out the tough rib from each leaf in a V shape, making it easier to roll.

2. Make the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent. Reduce the heat to low and add the minced garlic. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.

Add the tomato sauce, petite diced tomatoes, cider vinegar, and brown sugar to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

3. Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground pork sausage, ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, rice, dried parsley, and paprika. Mix until well combined.

4. Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spoon a thin layer of the tomato sauce into the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.

Take a cabbage leaf and place about 1/3 cup of the meat mixture in the center. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling and roll tightly. Place the rolled cabbage seam-side down in the casserole dish on top of the tomato sauce. Repeat this process until all the cabbage leaves are filled and placed in the dish. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top of the cabbage rolls.

5. Bake

Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 80-90 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the meat is cooked through. The foil helps to steam the cabbage, ensuring it remains soft and pliable.

Additional Tips for Perfect Cabbage Rolls

Boiling the Cabbage: Do not skip boiling the cabbage. This step is essential as it makes the leaves soft enough to roll without tearing. Uncooked cabbage leaves are too stiff and will not roll properly.
Ground Meat: There is no need to precook the ground meat before mixing it with the other ingredients. It will cook thoroughly during the baking process.
Easier Leaf Removal: After boiling the cabbage, use a sharp knife to slice off the root end by about 1/2 – 3/4 inch. This technique helps in removing the leaves more easily.
Quick Version: In a hurry? Use your favorite jarred marinara sauce instead of making the sauce from scratch. Just add 1 tablespoon of vinegar and 1 1/2 – 2 tablespoons of brown sugar to enhance the flavor.
Covering the Dish: Ensure that the baking dish is tightly covered with foil to allow the cabbage rolls to steam properly. This helps in softening the cabbage leaves and ensuring even cooking.

Nutritional Information

For those who keep an eye on their dietary intake, here’s a breakdown of the nutrition per serving:

Calories: 173 kcal
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Protein: 8 g
Fat: 11 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5 g
Trans Fat: 0.3 g
Cholesterol: 41 mg
Sodium: 154 mg
Potassium: 260 mg
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 4 g
Vitamin A: 153 IU
Vitamin C: 29 mg
Calcium: 46 mg
Iron: 1 mg

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Cabbage Rolls

How long can I store leftover cabbage rolls?

Leftover cabbage rolls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure they are kept in an airtight container. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Can I use different types of meat?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses a combination of ground pork sausage and ground beef, you can substitute other types of ground meat such as turkey or chicken. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to match the type of meat used.

What can I use instead of Minute Rice?

If you prefer not to use Minute Rice, you can use long-grain parboiled white rice or regular white rice. Ensure the rice is partially cooked before adding it to the meat mixture, as it will cook further during the baking process.

How do I make cabbage rolls spicier?

To add a bit of heat to your cabbage rolls, you can include some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the meat mixture. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

Can I make the cabbage rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the cabbage rolls a day in advance. Prepare the rolls, place them in the casserole dish, and cover with the sauce. Store in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to cook, bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the meat with a mixture of cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative. Make sure to adjust the seasoning to ensure flavor is well balanced.

Why did my cabbage rolls fall apart?

If your cabbage rolls fall apart, it could be due to the cabbage leaves being too stiff or the meat mixture being too loose. Ensure you properly boil the cabbage leaves until they are pliable. If the meat mixture seems too loose, you can add a bit more rice or breadcrumbs to help bind it together.

With this detailed guide, you’re well on your way to creating a comforting, delicious meal that is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Enjoy the process of making these classic cabbage rolls and savor every bite of this time-honored dish!