Picture tender cabbage leaves enveloping a flavorful filling of ground meat, rice, and herbs, all simmered in a savory tomato sauce. Each bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, with the cabbage providing a soft and slightly sweet wrapper that perfectly complements the hearty filling. These cabbage rolls bring together the best of comfort food and home-cooked goodness, making them a beloved dish in many households. Let’s begin!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup cooked rice
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 can tomato sauce (15 ounces)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove the outer leaves of the cabbage, and blanch them in the boiling water for about 2 minutes until they are pliable. Remove the leaves and set them aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Take a cabbage leaf and place a spoonful of the meat mixture in the center. Roll the leaf tightly, tucking in the sides as you go, to form a neat roll. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
- In a separate pot or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Carefully place the stuffed cabbage rolls in the simmering sauce, seam side down. Cover the pot and cook for 15-20 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
- Serve the stuffed cabbage rolls hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For the best results, choose a cabbage with large leaves that are pliable and easy to roll. Blanching the cabbage leaves briefly in boiling water helps soften them and makes them easier to work with. Feel free to customize the filling by adding additional herbs, spices, or vegetables according to your taste preferences. You can also make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with cooked lentils or mushrooms. Serve these cabbage rolls with a side of mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal. Enjoy!
*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
