- Prepare the Cabbage:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage head and place the whole cabbage in the boiling water. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the outer leaves are tender and can be easily peeled off. Remove the cabbage from the water and set aside to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, carefully peel off the leaves one by one. Trim the thick center rib from each leaf to make them easier to roll.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Rolls:
- Take a cabbage leaf and place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture in the center (the amount will depend on the size of your cabbage leaves). Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling and roll it up tightly, like a burrito. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
- Cook the Rolls:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, spread a layer of diced tomatoes and tomato sauce on the bottom. Place the cabbage rolls seam side down in the pot, packing them snugly together.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a bowl, mix together the remaining diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, brown sugar, lemon juice, and beef broth (or water). Pour this mixture over the cabbage rolls in the pot.
- Simmer:
- Bring the pot to a simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the cabbage rolls cook for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the cabbage leaves are tender and the filling is cooked through. Occasionally spoon the sauce over the rolls during cooking.
- Serve:
- Once done, carefully remove the cabbage rolls from the pot and place them on a serving platter. Spoon some of the sauce over the top and sprinkle with chopped parsley for garnish, if desired.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the stuffed cabbage rolls hot, with extra sauce on the side if desired. They pair well with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
Notes:
- You can adjust the seasoning of the filling to your taste preferences. Some variations include adding a bit of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
- Leftover cabbage rolls can be refrigerated for a few days or frozen for longer storage. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
This stuffed cabbage recipe is hearty, comforting, and perfect for a satisfying meal any time of the year. Enjoy making and savoring this classic dish!