Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Ingredients:

For the Filling (Burgers):

• 500g (1 lb) ground beef (or chicken/turkey)

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small carrot, grated (optional for moisture)

• 1 egg

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (or oats for healthier option)

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp cumin

• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Wrap:

• 1 medium head of cabbage (green or savoy)

• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter

For the Sauce (optional but delicious):

• 1 cup tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp oregano

• ½ tsp sugar (to balance acidity)

• Salt & pepper to taste

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Instructions:

1. Prepare Cabbage Leaves:

   • Bring a large pot of water to boil.

   • Carefully remove whole cabbage leaves and blanch them for 2–3 minutes until soft but not mushy.

   • Drain and pat dry.

2. Make the Burger Filling:

   • In a bowl, mix ground meat, onion, garlic, carrot, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, and spices.

   • Knead until well combined.

3. Shape Burgers:

   • Take a blanched cabbage leaf, place some filling in the center, and fold like a wrap/burrito (tuck sides in and roll).

   • Repeat with all leaves and filling.

4. Prepare Baking Dish:

   • Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).

   • Grease a baking dish with olive oil.

   • Place cabbage burgers seam side down.

5. Add Sauce (optional):

   • Mix tomato sauce with olive oil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper.

   • Pour over the cabbage burgers.

6. Bake:

   • Cover dish with foil and bake for 30–35 minutes.

   • Remove foil, brush with olive oil or sauce, and bake another 10 minutes until slightly golden.

7. Serve:

   • Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or fresh salad.

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