Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Sauce

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Sauce

Introduction

Did you know that stuffed cabbage rolls, often seen as a labor-intensive meal, can actually be a delightful and healthful dish in less time than your next takeaway? This beloved dish, Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Sauce, blends flavor and nutrition while captivating your taste buds. Whether you’re a cooking novice or a seasoned chef, discovering how to prepare these rolls can not only satisfy your cravings but also lead to some impressively hearty leftovers!

Ingredients List

• Large cabbage leaves: 1 head (about 12 leaves)
• Ground meat (beef, turkey, or vegetarian alternative): 1 pound
• Cooked rice (white or brown): 1 cup
• Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Tomato sauce: 2 cups (plus an extra cup for topping)
• Egg: 1 (helps bind everything)
• Salt and pepper: To taste
• Dried herbs (oregano, thyme, parsley): 1 teaspoon each
• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (for sautéing)
  Substitutions: For a vegetarian version, swap out meat for lentils or quinoa. Brown rice can replace white for added fiber.

Timing

Preparation requires about 30 minutes, and cooking takes another 60 minutes, leading to a total of 90 minutes. This time frame is 20% less than many traditional recipes, making it an efficient family meal option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Begin by carefully removing the core from the cabbage. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the cabbage leaves for about 2-3 minutes until soft. This will make them pliable for rolling. Transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and sauté the chopped onions until translucent. Add minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute. In a bowl, mix the sautéed onions and garlic with ground meat, rice, egg, salt, pepper, and herbs until combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

Lay a cabbage leaf flat, placing a generous spoonful of filling at the base. Fold in the sides and roll upwards to create a secure roll. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

Step 4: Cook the Rolls

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom. Arrange the rolls seam-side down, cover with more sauce, and tightly seal with foil. Bake for about 45 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the rolls cool for a few minutes before serving. They pair beautifully with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Sauce is approximately:

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Total Fat: 10g
  This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals from the cabbage and filling, contributing to a balanced meal.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Meat: Try ground chicken or a tofu-based protein for a healthier option.
• Rice: Quinoa offers a higher protein content and a nutty flavor.
• Sauce: Use low-sugar tomato sauce or homemade fresh tomato puree to cut down on additives.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delectable rolls alongside a crisp garden salad, crusty whole-grain bread, or a side of sautéed green beans for a versatile and satisfying meal. Consider pairing with a glass of red wine to elevate the dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking Cabbage: Softening the leaves is important, but avoid making them too limp, or they may tear during rolling.
2. Underseasoning: Taste your filling before assembling. It should be well-seasoned for optimal flavor.
3. Tightly Packed Filling: Don’t overstuff the cabbage. A small amount goes a long way as it expands when cooking.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

For leftovers, allow the rolls to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to three months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture, adding a little water to keep them moist.

Conclusion

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Sauce are not only a comforting dish, but they also provide a nutritious meal that is inexpensively and time-efficiently prepared. Why not gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try? Share your experience in the comments below, or check out other delicious recipes on our blog.

FAQs

Q: Can I make stuffed cabbage rolls ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls a day in advance, refrigerate them, and bake just before serving.

Q: What if I don’t like cabbage?
A: You can substitute other leafy greens like collard greens or Swiss chard, though the flavor and texture will differ.

Q: Are there gluten-free options?
A: Yes! Use quinoa instead of rice, and check that your tomato sauce is gluten-free. It’s an easy swap that does not compromise flavor.

Q: Can I cook these in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Layer rolls and sauce in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours for a delightful slow-simmered flavor.

By following this interactive and detailed guide, you’re well-prepared to craft a delicious batch of Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Sauce. Happy cooking!

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Sauce

A delightful and healthful dish of stuffed cabbage rolls filled with a savory meat and rice mixture, topped with tomato sauce, perfect for any meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American, Comfort Food

Servings 6 servings

Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients

  

Cabbage Preparation

• 1 head Large cabbage leaves About 12 leaves

Filling Ingredients

• 1 pound Ground meat (beef, turkey, or vegetarian alternative)
• 1 cup Cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 large Onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 2 cups Tomato sauce Plus an extra cup for topping
• 1 Egg Helps bind everything
• Salt and pepper To taste
• 1 teaspoon Dried herbs (oregano, thyme, parsley) Each
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil For sautéing

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Carefully remove the core from the cabbage.
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the cabbage leaves for about 2-3 minutes until soft. Transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

Filling Preparation

• In a skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and sauté the chopped onions until translucent.
• Add minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute.
• In a bowl, mix the sautéed onions and garlic with ground meat, rice, egg, salt, pepper, and herbs until combined.

Assembly

• Lay a cabbage leaf flat, placing a generous spoonful of filling at the base.
• Fold in the sides and roll upwards to create a secure roll.
• Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

Cooking

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom.
• Arrange the rolls seam-side down, cover with more sauce, and tightly seal with foil.
• Bake for about 45 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes.

Serving

• Let the rolls cool for a few minutes before serving.
• They pair beautifully with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Notes

For leftovers, allow the rolls to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to three months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture, adding a little water to keep them moist.

Keyword Cabbage recipes, Easy Recipes, Healthy dinner, Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, Tomato Sauce

Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.

📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest