Old Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Old Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a classic comfort food dish, perfect for satisfying cravings on chilly evenings or for a hearty family meal. Combining tender cabbage leaves with a savory meat filling and a tangy tomato sauce, these rolls are both flavorful and filling. Here’s how to prepare this timeless recipe step by step.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium head cabbage (3 pounds)
• 1/2 pound uncooked ground beef
• 1/2 pound uncooked ground pork
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce, divided
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup uncooked long grain rice
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon snipped fresh dill or dill weed
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar

Directions:

1. Begin by cooking the cabbage in boiling water until the outer leaves pull away easily from the head. Reserve 12 large leaves for the rolls.
2. In a small bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, 1/2 cup of tomato sauce, chopped onion, uncooked rice, dried parsley flakes, salt, fresh dill, and cayenne pepper. Mix the ingredients well to form the filling.
3. Cut out the thick vein from the bottom of each cabbage leaf, creating a V-shaped cut. Place approximately 1/4 cup of the meat mixture onto each cabbage leaf, overlapping the cut ends of the leaf. Fold in the sides, then roll up the cabbage leaf beginning from the cut end. Repeat until all the filling is used.
4. Slice the remaining cabbage and place it in a Dutch oven. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam side down over the sliced cabbage.
5. Combine the diced tomatoes, sugar, and remaining tomato sauce; pour the mixture over the cabbage rolls.
6. Cover the Dutch oven and bake at 350°F until the cabbage rolls are tender, which typically takes about 1-1/2 hours.

Tips:

• Choose a head of cabbage that is firm and heavy for its size, with tightly packed leaves.
• Be careful not to overcook the cabbage leaves initially, as they should still be pliable for rolling.
• Adjust the seasoning of the meat mixture according to your taste preferences.
• For added flavor, consider incorporating a variety of herbs and spices into the filling.

Conclusion:
Old Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls offer a delicious blend of hearty flavors and comforting textures, making them a beloved dish for generations. Whether served as a main course for family dinners or prepared for special occasions, these cabbage rolls are sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul. Enjoy the timeless appeal of this classic recipe!

1. Can I use different types of meat for the filling?

• Yes, you can definitely experiment with different types of ground meat for the filling of your cabbage rolls. While the recipe traditionally calls for a combination of ground beef and ground pork, you can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb based on your preferences or dietary restrictions. Keep in mind that different meats may alter the flavor and texture slightly, so adjust seasonings accordingly.

1. Can I prepare the cabbage rolls in advance?

• Absolutely! Old Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls can be prepared in advance and refrigerated or even frozen for later use. After assembling the rolls, you can cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked rolls individually on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for storage for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply thaw if frozen, then bake according to the recipe instructions.

1. How can I prevent the cabbage rolls from unraveling during cooking?

• To prevent the cabbage rolls from unraveling during baking, make sure to secure them tightly when rolling. After placing the meat mixture onto the cabbage leaf, fold in the sides snugly and roll up tightly, beginning from the cut end. Placing the seam side down in the baking dish also helps keep them intact during cooking. Additionally, using toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the rolls can provide extra support if needed, just remember to remove them before serving.

1. What can I serve with Old Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls?

• Old Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls pair well with a variety of side dishes to complete the meal. Consider serving them alongside mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables can also add freshness and balance to the meal. For a more traditional touch, you can garnish the rolls with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill before serving. Experiment with different accompaniments to find your favorite combination!