Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 500g (1.1 lbs) ground beef
- 120g (3/4 cup) uncooked white rice
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 15ml (1 tbsp) olive oil
- 1 egg, beaten
- 5g (1 tsp) dried thyme
- 5g (1 tsp) paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 800ml (27 oz) canned tomato sauce
- 60ml (1/4 cup) water
- 30ml (2 tbsp) lemon juice
- 15g (1 tbsp) brown sugar
Cooking Time
Total estimated time: 2 hours
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Cabbage Leaves
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Gently lower the cabbage head into the boiling water and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes to soften the leaves. Using tongs, carefully peel off the softened leaves and set them aside to cool.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
While the cabbage is boiling, cook the rice according to package instructions and then set it aside to cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked onion and garlic, ground beef, cooked rice, beaten egg, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Make the Rolls
Lay out a large cabbage leaf and place approximately 2 tablespoons of the meat and rice mixture at the base of the leaf. Fold in the sides and roll up the leaf, tucking in the edges. Repeat the process for all leaves and filling.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, water, lemon juice, and brown sugar. Stir well to incorporate all the flavors.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce mixture on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls, covering them completely. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour or until the rolls are tender and the meat is cooked through.
Step 7: Serve
Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the cabbage rolls hot, topping them with extra sauce from the baking dish for added flavor. Enjoy your hearty creation!
Conclusion
Enjoying a plate of Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Sauce is more than just a meal; it’s an experience of comfort and tradition. The delicate balance between the savory filling and tangy tomato sauce creates a memorable taste that resonates with home-cooked sentiments. Perfect for a family gathering or a cozy dinner, these rolls will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression and offer room for personal culinary creativity. Happy cooking!
