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Instructions:
- Prepare the cabbage:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Remove the core of the cabbage and carefully submerge the entire head into the boiling water. Let it cook for 5-8 minutes, carefully removing and peeling off each outer leaf as it softens. Set the cabbage leaves aside on a plate to cool.
- Alternatively, you can freeze the cabbage overnight and let it thaw before use. This will also soften the leaves, making them pliable.
- Prepare the filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Assemble the cabbage rolls:
- Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a cutting board and place about 2 tablespoons of the meat and rice filling in the center of the leaf. Fold in the sides of the leaf, then roll it up tightly from the base to the top to form a neat roll. Repeat this process until all the filling is used.
- Make the tomato sauce:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, sugar, thyme, salt, pepper, and water or broth. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavor.
- Cook the cabbage rolls:
- In a large pot or deep baking dish, pour a thin layer of the tomato sauce to cover the bottom. Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in the pot, in a single layer if possible.
- Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the cabbage rolls, making sure they are mostly submerged in the sauce. If needed, add more water or broth to cover the rolls.
- Simmer or bake:
- Stovetop method: Cover the pot and simmer the cabbage rolls over low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the cabbage is tender and the meat is cooked through.
- Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, and bake for 1.5 hours, until the cabbage is tender and the filling is fully cooked.
- Serve:
- Serve the stuffed cabbage rolls with a generous spoonful of tomato sauce on top. Garnish with extra parsley, if desired, and enjoy!
Conclusion:
Stuffed Cabbage with Rice and Minced Meat is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together tender cabbage, savory meat, and flavorful tomato sauce. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, perfect for a hearty dinner. Whether made for a family gathering or prepared as a comforting weeknight meal, these cabbage rolls are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Extra Tips:
- You can prepare the cabbage rolls in advance and refrigerate them for a day before cooking.
- Try using other grains like quinoa or bulgur for a healthier twist.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld!
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
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