Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

August 13, 2025 by admin

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**For the Sauce:**

* 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
* 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
* 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for richness)
* 1 tablespoon brown sugar
* 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice
* 1/2 teaspoon paprika
* Salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

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### How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

**1. Prepare the cabbage:**
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Remove core from cabbage and carefully separate leaves. Boil leaves for 2–3 minutes until soft and pliable. Drain and let cool.

**2. Make the filling:**
In a large bowl, combine ground meat, uncooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

**3. Assemble the rolls:**
Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling in the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold the sides over the filling and roll up tightly like a burrito.

**4. Make the sauce:**
In a bowl or saucepan, mix tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste (if using), brown sugar, vinegar, paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust to taste.

**5. Layer and cook:**
Place a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of a large baking dish or Dutch oven. Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish. Pour remaining sauce over the rolls.

**6. Bake or simmer:**

* **Oven method:** Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1.5 to 2 hours.
* **Stovetop method:** Simmer covered on low heat for 1.5 hours.

**7. Serve and enjoy:**
Serve hot, spooning extra sauce over each roll. Enjoy with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

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### Tips for Success

* ✅ Freeze the cabbage head overnight and thaw it—this softens the leaves without boiling.
* ✅ Use leftover rice to save time.
* ✅ For a vegetarian version, swap meat for lentils or mushrooms.
* ✅ Add a splash of broth to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.

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### Storage and Reheating

* Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
* Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
* Reheat gently in the oven or on the stove with extra sauce or a splash of broth.

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### Final Thoughts

**Stuffed Cabbage Rolls** are more than just a recipe — they’re a connection to family, heritage, and the comfort of a home-cooked meal. Every bite is tender, flavorful, and steeped in tradition. Whether you’re making them for the first time or carrying on a family tradition, this dish is always a warm and satisfying winner.

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Craving more old-world comfort recipes or hearty one-pan meals? I’d be happy to help!