Stuffed Cabbage Rolls – Easy Dinner Recipe 🍲❤️
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a delightful and hearty easy dinner recipe that combines wholesome ingredients with comforting flavors. These delicious rolls are packed with seasoned meat and rice, making them the perfect family meal for any night of the week. With their savory taste and satisfying texture, you’ll love bringing this classic dish to your dining table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a versatile dish that can fit many occasions, from everyday family dinners to festive gatherings. The blend of seasoned meat, rice, and tender cabbage offers a wholesome, satisfying bite that appeals to all ages. Whether you prefer traditional flavors or like to add a modern twist, these rolls can be customized to suit your taste.
Another reason to adore this recipe is its ease of preparation. With a few simple steps, you can create a homemade meal that tastes like it took hours to perfect. Plus, the end result is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great dish to impress your guests.
Context/Background
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls have a rich history, with roots tracing back to Eastern Europe, where they are known as Golabki in Poland and Golubtsy in Russia. This traditional dish varies by region, with different cultures embracing their unique spin on the rolls. The combination of cabbage and filling represents a rustic comfort food that has stood the test of time, cherished for generations.
The process of making stuffed cabbage involves rolling meat and rice in cabbage leaves, then simmering them in a savory sauce, resulting in a deliciously tender and juicy creation. This technique ensures that each bite is infused with flavor, showcasing the art of simple yet effective cooking.
Recipe Details
Serves: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the core from the cabbage and carefully separate the leaves. Boil the leaves in a large pot of salted water for about 5 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, egg, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until well incorporated.
- Lay a cabbage leaf out and place about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture in the center. Roll up the leaf, tucking in the sides, and place it seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
- In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the tomato sauce and cook for 5 minutes. Pour the sauce over the cabbage rolls in the baking dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, until the rolls are tender and cooked through.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
- Choose a firm and fresh cabbage for easier leaf separation.
- Don’t overfill the leaves to prevent the rolls from tearing as you roll them up.
- Feel free to add herbs like dill or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
- Consider using a mix of beef and pork for a richer taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad to balance the hearty flavors of the dish. A slice of crusty bread also makes a great companion to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage and Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover, and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also freeze the rolls for up to 3 months for a convenient future meal.
Final Thoughts
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a must-try recipe for anyone who loves hearty, comfort-filled meals. This easy dinner recipe is not only classic and flavorful but also brings a touch of nostalgia to the dining table. Enjoy making this dish with your family, and share in the tradition of a meal that’s been beloved for centuries.
Recipe Notes
- You can substitute quinoa for rice for a healthier twist.
- For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with a mix of mushrooms and lentils.
- Adjust the seasoning to your preference; some like a bit of heat with added chili flakes.