Ingredients:
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 1 large head of cabbage (or 2 medium heads)
- 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef (or a mixture of beef and pork)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or dried basil (optional)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) tomato sauce or 3 cups homemade tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
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Instructions:
Preparing the Cabbage:
- Blanch the Cabbage:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Carefully remove the core of the cabbage using a knife.
- Place the cabbage head into the boiling water. You may need to do this in batches if using two heads. Boil for 3-5 minutes or until the outer leaves are pliable.
- Remove the cabbage from the water and let it cool slightly. Carefully peel off the leaves, trying to keep them intact. Set aside.
Making the Filling:
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and dried thyme or basil if using. Mix until well combined.
Assembling the Rolls:
- Fill the Cabbage Leaves:
- Place a generous tablespoon of the meat mixture onto the center of each cabbage leaf.
- Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll up from the bottom to enclose the filling. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
Preparing the Sauce:
- Make the Tomato Sauce:
- In a large bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar (if using), oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Baking:
- Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large baking dish, spread a small amount of tomato sauce on the bottom.
- Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish.
- Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the cabbage rolls.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
- Cook the Rolls:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the meat is cooked through and the cabbage is tender.
- If using cheese, uncover the dish in the last 15 minutes of baking and sprinkle shredded cheese on top, then bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving:
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the cabbage rolls cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Enjoy your homemade cabbage rolls! They make a great meal on their own or can be served with a side of crusty bread or a salad.
Free Keto Meal Plan : KETO DIET PLAN FOR BEGINNERS STEP BY STEP GUIDE
