📝 Description

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a traditional dish found in many cuisines (Eastern European, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean). Tender cabbage leaves are wrapped around a savory filling—usually ground meat, rice, and spices—then baked in a tangy tomato sauce until perfectly soft and flavorful.

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🛒 Ingredients

For the cabbage:

• 1 large green cabbage

• Water for boiling

For the filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or mix of beef & pork)

• 1 cup cooked rice

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 egg

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp paprika

For the sauce:

• 2 cups crushed tomatoes

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tbsp sugar (balances acidity)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• Salt & pepper to taste

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👨‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the cabbage

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

2. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage.

3. Place the whole cabbage in boiling water and cook for 5–10 minutes.

4. Peel off softened leaves one at a time.

5. Set aside to cool.

👉 Tip: Trim thick stems so they’re easier to roll.

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Step 2: Make the filling

1. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, parsley, and spices.

2. Mix until fully combined but don’t overwork (keeps it tender).

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Step 3: Assemble the rolls

1. Place about 2–3 tablespoons of filling in the center of each cabbage leaf.

2. Fold in the sides, then roll tightly like a burrito.

3. Repeat until all filling is used.

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Step 4: Prepare the sauce

1. In a bowl, mix crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, olive oil, and seasoning.

2. Stir well.

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Step 5: Bake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Spread a layer of sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.

3. Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down.

4. Pour remaining sauce over the top.

5. Cover with foil and bake for 60–75 minutes.

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🔥 Pro Tips

• Let them rest 10–15 minutes after baking for best flavor.

• They taste even better the next day (great for meal prep).

• Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

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🥗 Variations

• Low-carb: Skip rice and use cauliflower rice

• Vegetarian: Replace meat with lentils or mushrooms

• Spicy: Add chili flakes or hot sauce

• Sweet & sour style: Add raisins or a bit more sugar + vinegar

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❓ Common Questions

1. Can I freeze cabbage rolls?

Yes! Freeze before or after cooking. They last up to 3 months.

2. Why are my cabbage rolls tough?

They may need longer cooking time or thinner leaves. Pre-boiling helps soften them.

3. Can I use other meats?

Absolutely—ground turkey, chicken, or lamb all work.

4. What should I serve with them?

• Mashed potatoes

• Crusty bread

• Sour cream on top

• Simple salad

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