Introduction

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a beloved comfort food enjoyed in many cultures across Eastern Europe and the Mediterranean. They are made with tender cabbage leaves filled with a hearty mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices, all simmered in a tangy tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, this dish is both nourishing and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cabbage
• 500g (1 lb) ground beef or beef/pork mix
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley or dill)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Gently remove cabbage leaves and blanch them for 2-3 minutes until pliable. Drain and set aside.
2. In a bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form the filling.
3. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of filling onto each cabbage leaf, fold in the sides, and roll tightly.
4. In a large skillet or baking dish, heat olive oil and pour half of the tomato sauce at the bottom.
5. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam side down in the dish. Pour the remaining tomato sauce on top. Add a little water if needed.
6. Cover and simmer gently on the stove for 45-60 minutes, or bake at 180°C (350°F) for 1 hour until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Tips & Notes

• You can substitute rice with quinoa for a healthier twist.
• Mixing beef and pork gives a juicier filling.
• For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice to the tomato sauce.

History

Stuffed cabbage rolls have roots in Eastern European and Middle Eastern cuisine, where cabbage and grains were staples. Known as “golabki” in Poland, “sarma” in the Balkans, and “malfouf mahshi” in the Middle East, this dish has many delicious variations across cultures.

Health Benefits

Cabbage is packed with vitamins C and K, while the protein from meat and fiber from rice make this dish both balanced and filling. It’s a hearty meal that supports digestion, immunity, and energy levels.

Conclusion

Whether you call them cabbage rolls, golabki, or sarma, this classic dish brings warmth and tradition to the table. Perfect for sharing with loved ones, it’s a timeless recipe that never goes out of style. 🥬🍅