Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

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Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls 🥬🍅🍖

Introduction

Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a timeless comfort food made with tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory blend of ground meat, rice, and herbs, all simmered in a tangy tomato sauce. This dish is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for a make-ahead dinner that tastes even better the next day.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Stuffed cabbage rolls have deep roots in Eastern European, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cuisines, each culture adding its own twist. Known as “golabki” in Poland, “sarma” in the Balkans, and “malfouf” in Arabic cuisine, these rolls have long symbolized home-cooked tradition, family gatherings, and resourceful cooking with simple ingredients.

Ingredients Quantity

(Serves 6–8)

For the Rolls:

  • 1 large head of green cabbage
  • 1 lb ground beef (or half beef, half pork)
  • 1 cup cooked white rice
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika (optional)

For the Sauce:

  • 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder

Optional Additions

  • Add chopped mushrooms or grated carrots to the filling
  • Use crushed tomatoes or tomato soup instead of tomato sauce
  • Fresh dill or parsley in the meat mixture for added freshness
  • A touch of cinnamon or allspice for a Middle Eastern flavor
  • A splash of Worcestershire sauce in the tomato sauce for richness

Tips for Success

  • Freeze the cabbage head for a day then thaw—it softens the leaves without boiling.
  • If boiling, cook the whole head in salted water for 5–10 minutes, then peel leaves.
  • Trim the thick vein on each cabbage leaf for easier rolling.
  • Don’t overpack the rolls—leave room for rice to expand.
  • Simmer low and slow so flavors meld and the cabbage becomes tender.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cabbage: Boil or freeze then thaw the cabbage to soften. Peel 12–15 large leaves and trim the thick vein at the base.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix gently.
  3. Place about 2 tablespoons of filling on each cabbage leaf. Fold sides inward and roll tightly from the base up.
  4. In a saucepan, whisk together tomato sauce, brown sugar, lemon juice, and seasonings. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.
  5. In a large baking dish or Dutch oven, spread a layer of sauce, then place rolls seam-side down. Pour remaining sauce over the top.
  6. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, or simmer gently on the stovetop for the same amount of time.
  7. Let rest 10 minutes before serving. Spoon extra sauce over each roll.

Description

Each bite of a cabbage roll offers a warm, comforting balance of tender cabbage, flavorful meat, and rich tomato sauce. The filling is juicy and herbed, while the sauce ties everything together with just the right amount of sweetness and tang.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per roll)

  • Calories: 200
  • Protein: 14g
  • Fat: 9g
  • Carbs: 15g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 400mg

Conclusion

Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a satisfying and soulful meal with old-fashioned charm. Whether made for Sunday dinner, holidays, or freezer meals, they’re a beloved dish that never goes out of style.

Recommendation

Serve with mashed potatoes, sour cream, crusty bread, or a light salad. Leftovers taste even better the next day—just store in an airtight container and reheat gently.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Cabbage is rich in vitamins and fiber, and when combined with lean protein and whole grains like brown rice, this dish becomes a wholesome, well-balanced meal. Swap ground turkey or quinoa to lighten it up further without sacrificing flavor.

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