Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

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There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of stuffed cabbage rolls wafting from the kitchen, evoking memories of family gatherings and hearty meals. This classic dish, with its tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory beef and rice filling, all smothered in a rich homemade tomato sauce, is the epitome of comfort food. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises to be a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a timeless favorite for good reason. These rolls are not only filling but also burst with flavor in every bite. The combination of beef and rice offers a satisfying texture, while the tomato sauce provides a tangy and sweet contrast. This recipe is an excellent choice for family dinners or when you want to impress your guests with a dish that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare, but is surprisingly simple.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Medium saucepan
• Large, wide saucepan
• Medium mixing bowl
• Large skillet
• Toothpicks or kitchen string

Ingredients

• 2/3 cup water
• 1/3 cup uncooked white rice
• 8 cabbage leaves
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1 egg, slightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed tomato soup

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add rice and stir, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
2. Bring a large, wide saucepan of lightly salted water to a boil. Add cabbage leaves and cook for 2 to 4 minutes or until softened; drain.
3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, 1 cup of cooked rice, onion, egg, salt, and pepper, along with 2 tablespoons of tomato soup. Mix thoroughly.
4. Divide the beef mixture evenly among the cabbage leaves. Roll and secure them with toothpicks or string.
5. In a large skillet over medium heat, place the cabbage rolls and pour the remaining tomato soup over the top. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 40 minutes, stirring and basting with the liquid often.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cabbage leaves are pliable to prevent tearing. If needed, trim the thick vein at the bottom of each leaf.
• For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding garlic or herbs like thyme or parsley to the beef mixture.

Additional Tips and Variations

Want to switch things up? Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version. You can also add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the filling for added nutrition and flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 300 | Protein: 20g | Carbohydrates: 25g | Fat: 12g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these cabbage rolls ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Can I freeze stuffed cabbage rolls? Yes, these rolls freeze well. Simply prepare and cook them, then let them cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

There’s no better time than now to dive into the world of homemade stuffed cabbage rolls. This comforting dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience and any personal twists you add to the recipe. Bon appétit!

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