Stuffed cabbage rolls

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, and seasonings (salt, pepper, paprika, oregano).
2. Mix thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until the ingredients are well blended but not overworked.

Step 3: Make the Tomato Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
2. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, salt, pepper, basil, and water or broth.
3. Simmer the sauce on low for about 15 minutes while you prepare the rolls.

Step 4: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

1. Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a cutting board.
2. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of filling near the base of the leaf.
3. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll up tightly from the base to form a neat log.
4. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.

Step 5: Cook the Rolls

Option 1: On the Stove

1. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in the bottom of a large pot or Dutch oven.
2. Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down in layers.
3. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls.
4. Cover and simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.

Option 2: In the Oven

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Layer rolls and sauce in a baking dish.
3. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

Serve stuffed cabbage rolls hot with a dollop of sour cream or a slice of crusty bread. They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

🧊 Storage Tips:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Cabbage rolls freeze well. Place in a freezer-safe container with sauce and keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

🥄 Final Thoughts:

Stuffed cabbage rolls are more than just a meal — they are a tradition passed down through generations. With their comforting blend of flavors and satisfying texture, they embody the warmth of home-cooked heritage. Whether you’re making them for the first time or revisiting a family recipe, this dish is sure to become a beloved staple at your table.