Experience the comforting flavors of stuffed cabbage, a dish that has warmed homes for generations. Tender cabbage leaves enfold a savory filling of meat, rice, and spices, simmered to perfection. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is both hearty and satisfying. Follow this guide to create your own delicious stuffed cabbage that will impress your guests and delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Fresh dill for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 6 servings. Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, while cooking time is about 1 hour.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 stuffed cabbage roll) contains approximately 320 calories, 20g protein, 15g fat, 28g carbohydrates, and 3g fiber. This is based on one serving per person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and blanch the leaves for 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the leaves and set them aside to cool.
- In a skillet, sauté the onions and garlic until softened.
- In a bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, sautéed onions, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the mixture on each cabbage leaf.
- Roll the leaf tightly, tucking in the sides, and place in a baking dish.
- Pour tomato sauce over the rolls and cover with foil.
- Bake for 1 hour, then garnish with fresh dill before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground chicken or a meat alternative for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or quinoa as the filling base. Additionally, brown rice can replace white rice for added nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
Stuffed cabbage pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread and a fresh green salad. A dollop of sour cream on top enhances the flavors beautifully. Enjoy with a light red wine for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the cabbage leaves can make them too soft to roll.
- Not seasoning the filling adequately can result in bland cabbage.
- Using too much filling can cause the rolls to burst during cooking.
- Not sealing the rolls tightly can lead to unfilled cabbage leaves.
- Skipping the baking step can prevent the flavors from melding together.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh cabbage for the best results.
- Let the mixture cool slightly before filling the leaves.
- Experiment with different spices to customize the flavor.
- Consider adding grated vegetables to the filling for extra nutrition.
FAQs
Can I make stuffed cabbage ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare stuffed cabbage a day in advance. Just assemble the rolls and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
What type of cabbage is best for this recipe?
Savoy or green cabbage work best due to their tender leaves, which are easier to roll.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be used as alternatives to beef.
How can I make stuffed cabbage spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
Is there a vegetarian version of stuffed cabbage?
Yes, substitute the meat with lentils, quinoa, or a mix of vegetables for a tasty vegetarian option.
Conclusion
Stuffed cabbage is a classic dish that combines comforting flavors and hearty ingredients. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Take the time to enjoy the process, and savor each delicious bite!
Stuffed Cabbage
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 15 oz tomato sauce
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Fresh dill for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and blanch the leaves for 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the leaves and set them aside to cool.
- In a skillet, sauté the onions and garlic until softened.
- In a bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, sautéed onions, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the mixture on each cabbage leaf.
- Roll the leaf tightly, tucking in the sides, and place in a baking dish.
- Pour tomato sauce over the rolls and cover with foil.
- Bake for 1 hour, then garnish with fresh dill before serving.
