Hearty Cabbage Rolls Recipe for Cozy Family Nights
This cabbage rolls recipe is a comforting dish filled with savory flavors, perfect for family gatherings.
Equipment
- - Large pot
- Skillet
- Baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Any cooking oil can be used as a substitute
- 1 medium Onion Shallots or green onions work well too
- 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is ideal, but jarred can substitute
- 15 ounces Tomato Sauce Consider using homemade tomato puree or canned crushed tomatoes
- 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes Fresh diced tomatoes can be a delightful in-season alternative
- 2 tablespoons Cider Vinegar White vinegar or lemon juice is a good substitute
- 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar You could also use honey or maple syrup
For the Filling
- 1 large head Green Cabbage Savoy cabbage or kale leaves can also work
- 1 pound Ground Pork Sausage All ground beef or turkey can be a leaner option
- 1 pound Ground Beef Feel free to use ground lamb or chicken as alternatives
- 1 large Egg A flaxseed or chia seed mixture can serve as a vegan alternative
- 1 cup Minute Rice Quinoa can be a gluten-free option for variety
- 2 tablespoons Dried Parsley Substitute with fresh parsley or another herb like dill
- 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika can offer a different flavor profile
Instructions
Directions
- Boil the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Submerge the whole cabbage for 5 minutes to soften the leaves. Drain and let it cool before handling.
- Prepare the Leaves: Once cool, remove 12 cabbage leaves. Trim the thick ribs in a V-shape to make them flexible for rolling.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion for 2-3 minutes until translucent, then add garlic. Mix in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, cider vinegar, and brown sugar; season to taste and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground meats, sautéed onion and garlic, egg, rice, parsley, and paprika. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly combined.
- Roll the Cabbage: Lay a cabbage leaf flat, and fill it with about 1/3 cup of the meat mixture. Roll tightly, tucking in the sides. Place seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the remaining sauce over the top of the cabbage rolls. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 80-90 minutes, or until cooked through and tender.
Notes
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color.