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Traditional Cabbage Rolls

Close-up of classic cabbage rolls, one cut open to reveal a hearty meat and rice filling, covered in tomato sauce.
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A classic comfort food, these cabbage rolls feature tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory beef and rice filling, simmered in a rich tomato sauce.

Ingredients

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  • 12 large cabbage leaves
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup cooked white rice
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed tomato soup
  • 1/2 cup water

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cabbage leaves: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the cabbage leaves and boil for 3-5 minutes, or until softened and pliable. Remove leaves and set aside to cool. Trim the thick center rib from each leaf.
  2. Make the filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
  3. Assemble the rolls: Lay a cabbage leaf flat. Place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture near the stem end of the leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf inward over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the stem end. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
  4. Prepare the sauce: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the crushed tomatoes, condensed tomato soup, and water. Stir to combine.
  5. Cook the cabbage rolls: Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in the pot with the sauce. Ensure they are mostly submerged. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat.
  6. Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the cabbage is very tender and the filling is cooked through.
  7. Serve hot.

Notes

  • For a shortcut to softening cabbage leaves, you can freeze the whole head of cabbage overnight. The thawing process will loosen the leaves.
  • You can substitute ground turkey or a mixture of beef and pork for the ground beef.
  • For a richer flavor, add a bay leaf to the tomato sauce while simmering.
  • This dish is excellent for meal planning and can be made ahead and reheated.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.unfoldrecipes.com/classic-cabbage-rolls-recipe/