Description
Classic Cabbage Rolls are a hearty and comforting dish featuring tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a savory mixture of ground pork and beef, rice, and spices, all baked in a rich tomato sauce. This traditional recipe is perfect for a family dinner and is sure to satisfy with its blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Scale
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
- Prepare the Cabbage: Boil the whole head of cabbage in a large pot for 5 minutes. Remove and cool. Once cooled, cut off 1/2 inch from the stem end and remove 12 leaves. Cut out the tough rib from each leaf in a V shape.
- Make the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Cook chopped onion until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook briefly. Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: Mix ground pork sausage, ground beef, onion, garlic, egg, rice, parsley, and paprika in a bowl.
- Assemble the Rolls: Spoon some meat mixture onto each cabbage leaf, fold in the sides, and roll tightly. Place rolls seam-side down in a casserole dish over a layer of tomato sauce. Pour remaining sauce over the rolls.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 80-90 minutes until cabbage is tender.
Notes
- Boiling the cabbage is essential for easy rolling.
- Ground meat does not need to be precooked.
- For a quicker version, use jarred marinara sauce with added vinegar and brown sugar.
- Cover tightly with foil to ensure the rolls steam and the cabbage remains soft.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 80-90 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Eastern European
Keywords: Classic Cabbage Rolls