Old Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Prepare yourself for a journey back to the comforting flavors of yesteryears with our timeless recipe for Old Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls. This cherished dish embodies the essence of hearty home cooking, offering a symphony of flavors wrapped in tender cabbage leaves. From the savory blend of ground beef and pork to the rich tomato sauce, each bite is a nostalgic embrace of tradition and warmth. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary adventure that promises to delight the senses and evoke cherished memories.

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. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves: Start by cooking the cabbage in boiling water until the outer leaves pull away easily from the head. Set aside 12 large leaves for rolling.
2. Make the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, 1/2 cup of tomato sauce, chopped onion, uncooked rice, dried parsley flakes, salt, snipped fresh dill (or dill weed), and cayenne pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Roll the Cabbage Rolls: Cut out the thick vein from the bottom of each cabbage leaf, making a V-shaped cut. Place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture onto each cabbage leaf, overlapping the cut ends. Fold in the sides of the cabbage leaf, then roll up the leaf starting from the cut end. Repeat until all filling is used.
4. Assemble and Bake: Slice the remaining cabbage and place it in a Dutch oven. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam side down over the sliced cabbage. In a separate bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, sugar, and the remaining tomato sauce. Pour this mixture over the cabbage rolls. Cover the Dutch oven and bake at 350°F until the cabbage rolls are tender, approximately 1-1/2 hours.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

1. Can I use different meats for the filling?
   • Yes, feel free to customize the filling by using ground turkey, chicken, or a combination of meats according to your preference.
2. Can I use pre-cooked rice instead of uncooked rice?
   • While uncooked rice works best for absorbing flavors during cooking, you can use pre-cooked rice if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. Can I freeze leftover cabbage rolls?
   • Absolutely! Cabbage rolls freeze well and make for convenient meals later on. Simply store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
   • Yes, you can omit the ground meat and substitute it with cooked lentils, quinoa, or your favorite meat alternative for a vegetarian version.
5. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
   • Certainly! Fresh herbs can impart a more vibrant flavor to the dish. Just remember to adjust the quantity, as fresh herbs are usually more potent than dried ones.
6. What can I serve with stuffed cabbage rolls?
   • Stuffed cabbage rolls pair well with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
7. How do I prevent the cabbage rolls from unraveling during baking?
   • Make sure to tuck in the sides tightly when rolling the cabbage leaves, and place them seam side down in the baking dish to help keep them intact.
8. Can I use cabbage leaves that are torn or damaged?
   • It’s best to use intact cabbage leaves for rolling to ensure the filling stays enclosed. However, torn leaves can still be used by overlapping them to seal the filling inside.

Tips:

1. Selecting the Cabbage: Look for a medium-sized cabbage with tightly packed leaves for the best results in rolling.
2. Parboil the Cabbage: Parboiling the cabbage leaves briefly makes them more pliable for rolling without tearing.
3. Seasoning the Filling: Taste the filling mixture before rolling to ensure it’s seasoned to your liking.
4. Resting Time: Allow the stuffed cabbage rolls to rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

With these tips and answers to common questions, you’re ready to recreate the timeless charm of Old Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls in your own kitchen. Enjoy the heartwarming flavors and share this cherished recipe with loved ones for a truly memorable dining experience.

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