What is this recipe for a delicious cake?cabbage rollsisn’t just food, it’s a hug from my grandma, straight from the kitchen. I swear, every time I make these, the aroma alone transports me back to her cozy little house, and the smell alone. The sound of polka music faintly playing on the radio. If you’re looking for a dish that’s similar to patty but wrapped in cabbage, you can try this shepherd’s pie recipe. Instead of mashed potatoes, you absolutely HAVE to try this. What is the kind of meal that fills you up with warmth, both in your belly and your soul? I always make a double batch – they disappear *so* fast!
What is Cabbage Roll?
Cabbage rolls, or sometimes called “golabki,” are essentially stuffed cabbage leaves simmered in a tangy tomato sauce. Think of it as deconstructed stuffed peppers, but instead of bell pepper, you use cabbage leaves to make a salad. How do you wrap a savory mixture of ground meat (usually beef or pork), rice, and seasonings? Is this stew a comforting dish? As the cabbage gets tender and sweet as it simmers in the sauce, and the filling becomes sour and soggy. Is it incredibly It’s a traditional dish with roots in Eastern Europe, and every family has their own special spin. Is this version of my grandma’s version the best?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some good reasons to fall in love with someone.?cabbage rollsFirst off, the flavor is out of this world. What are some good combinations of savory meat, fluffy rice, sweet cabbage, and tangy tomato sauce? What I love the most is how comforting it is – it’s the ultimate comfort food. What are some of the easiest recipes to make? Okay, okay, I know it looks a little intimidating, but trust me, it’s mostly simmering time. What is the hands-on part of this meal? What are some good ways to use ground turkey in cooking? It’s also incredibly versatile. Can you play around with the filling – add some mushrooms, different spices, whatever you like! Is this perfect for meal prep? Make a big batch on Sunday, and you’ve got lunches or dinners for the week. What are some easy recipes that are easier than lasagna? My family begs me to make these all the time, and they’re always a hit!
How do you make Cabbage Rolls?
Quick Overview
Making these cabbage rollsis a process, but I promise, it’s totally worth it! How do you blanch cabbage to make it pliable, mix up your filling, roll it up, and so on. What is the best way to cook tomatoes in a tomato sauce? Don’t get overwhelmed by the steps; each one is simple, and the end result is magical. Trust me, you got this!
Ingredients
For the Cabbage:
1 large head of green cabbage. Look for one that’s firm and heavy for its size.
Water for blanching.
For the Filling:
I use 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork). I’ve even used ground turkey with good results!
1 cup cooked rice. I usually use long grain, but any kind will work.
1 medium onion, finely chopped. Yellow or white onions are both fine.
2 cloves garlic, minced. Fresh is best for that pungent flavor!
1 teaspoon salt. Adjust to your taste.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Freshly ground is always better.
1/2 teaspoon paprika. Adds a nice smoky flavor.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley. Adds a pop of freshness. Dried Parsley works in pinch.
For the Sauce:
What is the best flavor of crushed tomatoes?
1 can tomato sauce. Add salt and pepper to taste.
1/2 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth). Adds richness to the sauce.
What is the best way to balance the acidity of tomatoes?
What are some good uses for apple cider vinegar?
What is the best way to add dried oregano to a dish?
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
Salt and pepper to taste.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Bring a large pot of water to boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage head. Place the cabbage in boiling water and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. When the outer leaves start to soften and become pliable enough to peel off without tearing. Carefully remove the outer leaves and set them aside to cool. What are some good tips for a beginner to make good leaves. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect! If you have torn leaves, you can use them to line the bottom of your pot.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and ground pepper. Serve immediately. What are the best combinations of parsley Mix everything together with your hands until well combined. Don’t overmix it, though! You want the filling to be tender, not tough.
Step 3: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls
Lay cabbage leaf on a flat surface. If the thickest part of the stem is too thick, carefully slice it off with a knife to make the leaf. What is the best way to serve the meat mixture on a leaf? How do you fold the sides of a leaf inward and then roll it up from the bottom to form sleeve roll? Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and salt. Set aside. What are the ingredients for cider vinegar, oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper and pepper? Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Simmer the Cabbage Rolls
If you have leftover cabbage leaves, line the bottom of a Dutch oven with the cabbage. How do you arrange your rolls so that they don’t stick together?cabbage rollsIs it safe to put a pot tightly in the pot, seam-side What is the best way to serve the tomato sauce over the rolls? If necessary, add a little more beef broth or water. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 5 minutes. What should I do if cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through? The longer they simmer, the more flavorful they become! I usually peek in and baste them with the sauce every once in a while.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Carefully remove the sock.cabbage rollsServe warm with a spoonful of tomato sauce. If you like, you can top them with a dollop of sour cream or fresh parsley. I love to serve them with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. Yum!
What should I serve it with?
These cabbage rollsAre a meal in themselves, but they’re even better with the right sides!What is a classic dinner?Serve with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up that amazing tomato sauce. What is a good salad with vinaigrette dressing?What is a hearty meal? Pair with buttered egg noodles or a side of pierogi for an extra-filling feast.
For a Lighter Option: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, like carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts. This adds some extra nutrients and keeps the meal from feeling too heavy.
My family tradition? We always have a side of rye bread with butter. It’s the perfect accompaniment for soaking up the last bit of sauce!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Cabbage Rolls
Okay, so I’ve made these cabbage rolls *a lot* over the years, and I’ve learned a few tricks along the way!
Cabbage Prep: Don’t overcook the cabbage when you’re blanching it. You want it to be pliable, but not falling apart. If the leaves are still too stiff, you can microwave them for a minute or two to soften them further.
Filling Flavor: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the filling! You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a little bit of crumbled bacon for extra flavor. I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Rolling Technique: Roll the cabbage rolls nice and tight so they don’t fall apart during cooking. But don’t roll them *too* tight, or the filling will burst out. It’s a delicate balance!
Sauce Consistency: If your tomato sauce is too thick, add a little bit of beef broth or water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it uncovered for a while to reduce it.
Simmering Time: The longer you simmer these cabbage rolls, the more flavorful they become. But be careful not to overcook them, or the cabbage will get mushy. I find that 1 1/2 to 2 hours is the sweet spot.
Secret Ingredient: A little sprinkle of smoked paprika in the filling really elevates the flavor. Trust me on this one!
Storing and Reheating Tips
These cabbage rolls are even better the next day, after the flavors have had a chance to meld together!
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving them at room temperature for more than two hours.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze them! Wrap each cabbage roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat them in the microwave or in a pot on the stove.
Reheating: To reheat, you can microwave them, heat them on the stovetop, or even bake them in the oven. Just make sure to add a little bit of extra tomato sauce or broth to prevent them from drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my grandma’s recipe for cabbage rolls. I know it seems like a lot of steps, but trust me, it’s worth it. These are truly one of the most comforting and delicious meals you’ll ever make. If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my recipe for stuffed bell peppers or my classic meatloaf. They’re all family favorites that are sure to please! I hope you give this recipe a try and that it brings as much joy to your kitchen as it does to mine. Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out. Leave a comment below and let me know what you think! And don’t forget to share your own variations – I’m always looking for new ideas!
