Stuffed cabbage is a traditional dish enjoyed in many cultures, known for its comforting flavors and satisfying texture. This practical stuffed cabbage recipe combines tender cabbage leaves filled with a flavorful mixture of minced meat, rice, and aromatic spices. With a straightforward preparation process and delicious results, this recipe is perfect for a hearty family meal that’s both comforting and nutritious. Follow these easy steps to create a dish that will warm both your heart and your table.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Cabbage:
- 1 large cabbage
- 500 g minced meat (beef, lamb, or a mixture)
- 1 glass of rice (120 g)
- ½ bunch of parsley, chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 5 g black pepper
- 7 g paprika
- 8 g salt
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (10 g)
- 80 ml olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 2 teaspoons tomato paste (10 g)
- 5 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 1 glass (200 ml) of water (optional, to adjust consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage:
- Heat a large pot of water until it reaches a rolling boil.
- Carefully remove the core of the cabbage using a sharp knife.
- Place the whole cabbage in the boiling water for a few minutes, allowing the leaves to soften and loosen.
- As the leaves soften, gently peel them off one by one using tongs or a slotted spoon. Set the softened leaves aside to cool.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced meat, rice, chopped parsley, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, black pepper, paprika, and salt.
- Add the 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and 80 ml of olive oil to the mixture.
- Stuff the Cabbage Leaves:
- Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface.
- Place a small amount of the meat and rice filling (about 1-2 tablespoons, depending on the size of the leaf) near the base of the leaf.
- Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the base to the top, creating a neat little package.
- Cook the Stuffed Cabbage:
- In a large, deep pot, arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down, packing them tightly together.
- In a small bowl, mix the 2 teaspoons of tomato paste with the sunflower oil. Pour this mixture over the stuffed cabbage rolls, spreading it evenly.
- Add enough water to the pot to just cover the rolls.
- Simmer and Cook:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the cabbage rolls simmer for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the rice is fully cooked and the flavors have melded together.
- Check occasionally, adding more water if needed to keep the rolls covered.
- Serve:
- Once cooked, carefully transfer the stuffed cabbage rolls to a serving dish.
- Spoon some of the cooking liquid over the top to keep them moist.
Conclusion
This practical stuffed cabbage recipe brings together the comforting flavors of tender cabbage and a savory meat and rice filling, all simmered to perfection in a rich tomato sauce. It’s a dish that’s not only delicious but also deeply satisfying, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. With straightforward steps and ingredients, this recipe ensures you can enjoy a traditional meal with minimal fuss. Serve it with a side of yogurt or a slice of crusty bread, and enjoy the heartwarming taste of homemade stuffed cabbage!