Delicious Homemade Cabbage Rolls Recipe: A Hearty Comfort Food

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked long-grain rice
• 1.5 pounds lean ground beef
• 1.5 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 large egg
• 1 yellow onion, minced
• ⅓ cup parsley, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried dill
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ to 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
• 42 ounces tomato sauce, divided
• 1 medium head green cabbage (18-20 leaves)
• ½ cup cabbage water (reserved from boiling)
• Fresh dill, chopped (garnish, optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Cook rice per package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, egg, cooked rice, onion, parsley, garlic, salt, pepper, dill, onion powder, chili flakes (if using), and ½ cup tomato sauce. Mix until well combined.
3. Boil the cabbage head in a large pot for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through. Remove and let cool. Reserve ½ cup cabbage water.
4. Carefully remove cabbage leaves, cutting out the core. Re-boil cabbage as needed to soften additional leaves.
5. Line a 9×13 baking dish with cabbage leaves. Fill each leaf with ¼ cup of the meat mixture, fold in sides, and roll. Place seam-side down in the dish.
6. Combine remaining tomato sauce with reserved cabbage water. Pour over the cabbage rolls.
7. Bake for 1 hour, or until bubbly and cooked through. Garnish with fresh dill before serving.

Variations and Tips

Variations:

• Meats: Substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or pork.
• Grains: Use quinoa, barley, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Vegetarian: Fill with lentils, mushrooms, and veggies instead of meat.
• Spices: Add cumin, paprika, or smoked paprika for a flavor twist.
• Cheese: Mix in shredded mozzarella or feta for creaminess.
• Sauces: Swap tomato sauce with cream of mushroom soup or spicy salsa.
• Herbs: Experiment with thyme, basil, or oregano for fresh flavors.

Tips:

• Blanch cabbage leaves for pliability.
• Enhance filling with sautéed onions, garlic, and herbs.
• Avoid overfilling to prevent bursting.
• Layer sauce at the bottom to prevent sticking.
• Cook slowly for melded flavors.
• Rest rolls for 10-15 minutes before serving.
• Store leftovers in airtight containers; freeze for up to 3 months.

Storage Instructions

1. Cool cabbage rolls to room temperature.
2. Store in airtight containers or wrap tightly.
3. Refrigerate for 3-5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
4. Reheat in the microwave, oven, or stovetop. Thaw frozen rolls overnight before reheating.