Stuffed cabbage rolls are a timeless dish, embodying heartwarming comfort with every bite. This detailed guide will walk you through the steps to create a dish bursting with flavor and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re new to stuffed cabbage or revisiting an old favorite, this recipe will elevate your cooking experience.
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 1 large head of green cabbage (preferably with loose, pliable leaves)
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1/2 lb (225 g) ground pork
- 1 cup cooked rice (long-grain or basmati for a light texture)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp thyme
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 1 large can (28 oz/800 g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 small can (6 oz/170 g) tomato paste
- 1 cup chicken or beef broth
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp sugar (balances acidity)
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Sour cream (optional)