☆Ingredients:
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 head of cabbage
1 lb ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
☆Instructions:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large pot of boiling water, immerse the cabbage head after removing its core. Allow it to cook for approximately 5 minutes until the outer leaves are tender. Once done, remove the cabbage from the water and set it aside to cool.
Meanwhile, in a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it browns. Incorporate the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion turns translucent. Drain off any excess grease.
Combine the cooked rice with the beef mixture in a bowl. Season it with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Gently peel off the softened cabbage leaves, taking care not to tear them, and trim the thick center vein from each leaf.
Place about 2 tablespoons of the beef and rice mixture near the bottom edge of each cabbage leaf. Roll the leaf up, ensuring to tuck in the sides as you proceed.
In another bowl, mix together the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.
Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour the tomato mixture over them, ensuring they are completely covered.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the cabbage rolls are thoroughly cooked, and the sauce is bubbling.
Enjoy
Stuffed cabbage rolls, also known as “Golabki” in Polish cuisine, are a comforting and hearty dish enjoyed by many. Here are some additional tips and insights to make your stuffed cabbage rolls even more delicious:
1. **Cabbage Preparation**: Boiling the whole cabbage head briefly helps to soften the leaves, making them pliable and easier to roll. Be careful not to overcook the cabbage, as you want the leaves to be tender but still sturdy enough to hold the filling.
2. **Filling Variation**: While the recipe calls for ground beef and rice filling seasoned with onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper, feel free to customize the filling according to your taste preferences. You can substitute ground pork, turkey, or even vegetarian options like lentils or mushrooms for the ground beef. Additionally, herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme can add depth of flavor to the filling.
3. **Sauce**: The combination of diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce creates a flavorful and tangy sauce that complements the cabbage rolls. You can adjust the seasoning and thickness of the sauce by adding herbs, spices, or a splash of broth or water.
4. **Baking Time**: The baking time may vary depending on the size of your cabbage rolls and the thickness of the cabbage leaves. Check the rolls periodically while baking to ensure they are cooked through and the sauce is bubbling. If the sauce reduces too much during baking, you can cover the dish with foil to prevent the cabbage rolls from drying out.
5. **Make-Ahead Option**: You can prepare the stuffed cabbage rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking. Simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This is a convenient option for meal prep or when entertaining guests.
6. **Serving Suggestions**: Serve the stuffed cabbage rolls hot, garnished with chopped parsley or fresh herbs, alongside mashed potatoes, boiled potatoes, or crusty bread. The hearty and comforting flavors of the dish make it a perfect choice for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering.
Enjoy the warmth and nostalgia of homemade stuffed cabbage rolls with this classic recipe!
