Here’s a detailed, step-by-step article about making Old Fashioned Cabbage Rolls:
Old Fashioned Cabbage Rolls: A Timeless Comfort Dish
Cabbage rolls are a classic dish that has graced dinner tables for generations. Simple, hearty, and full of flavor, they combine tender cabbage leaves with a savory filling, all baked in a rich tomato sauce. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or introducing someone to traditional comfort food, old-fashioned cabbage rolls never disappoint.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need:
For the cabbage rolls:
- 1 large head of green cabbage
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 pound (225g) ground pork (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
For the tomato sauce:
- 2 cups tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
- 1/2 cup water or beef broth
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
- Remove the core of the cabbage carefully.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Place the whole cabbage head into the boiling water for 5–8 minutes, until the outer leaves are soft and pliable.
- Carefully peel off the softened leaves and set them aside. Repeat until you have enough leaves for all your rolls.
Tip: Thicker veins on the leaves can be trimmed slightly to make rolling easier.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork (if using), cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, and egg.
- Season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Step 3: Roll the Cabbage
- Take one cabbage leaf and place 2–3 tablespoons of the meat mixture near the base of the leaf.
- Fold the sides over the filling, then roll the leaf from base to tip to encase the filling completely.
- Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
Pro Tip: Rolling tightly but gently ensures the filling doesn’t spill during cooking.
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