Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Classic & Comforting)
Introduction
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a timeless comfort food enjoyed across many cultures—from Eastern Europe to the Middle East. Tender cabbage leaves are wrapped around a flavorful filling of meat, rice, herbs, and spices, then slowly simmered in a rich tomato sauce until soft, juicy, and deeply flavorful. This dish is perfect for family dinners, special gatherings, or meal prep because it tastes even better the next day.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 60–75 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30–45 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
For the Cabbage
Green cabbage – 1 large head
Water – for boiling
Salt – 1 tsp (for boiling water)
For the Filling
Ground beef or chicken – 500 g
Cooked rice (half-cooked preferred) – 1 cup
Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Fresh parsley or coriander – 2 tbsp, chopped
Salt – 1 tsp (or to taste)
Black pepper – ½ tsp
Paprika – 1 tsp
Cumin – ½ tsp
Allspice or garam masala – ½ tsp
Olive oil – 1 tbsp
For the Tomato Sauce
Tomato puree or crushed tomatoes – 2 cups
Tomato paste – 2 tbsp
Onion – 1 small, grated
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Olive oil – 2 tbsp
Salt – 1 tsp
Black pepper – ½ tsp
Sugar – ½ tsp (balances acidity)
Water or stock – 1 cup
Lemon juice – 1 tbsp (optional)
Step-by-Step Method
Prepare the Cabbage (15 minutes)
Remove outer damaged leaves.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Place whole cabbage in boiling water for 5–7 minutes, gently peeling off softened leaves.
Set leaves aside and trim thick veins for easy rolling.
Make the Filling (10 minutes)
In a bowl, combine ground meat, rice, onion, garlic, herbs, salt, and spices.
Mix gently until just combined (do not overmix).
Prepare Tomato Sauce (10 minutes)
Heat olive oil in a pan.
Add onion and sauté until soft.
Add garlic, tomato paste, and puree.
Season with salt, pepper, sugar, and lemon juice.
Add water/stock and simmer 5 minutes.
Assemble the Rolls (15 minutes)
Lay a cabbage leaf flat.
Place 2–3 tbsp filling near the base.
Fold sides inward and roll tightly.
Repeat until all filling is used.
Cook the Rolls (45–60 minutes)
Spread a thin layer of sauce in a heavy pot.
Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down.
Pour remaining sauce over rolls.
Cover and simmer on low heat for 45–60 minutes until tender.
Optional Cooking Methods
Oven: Bake covered at 180°C (350°F) for 75 minutes
Slow Cooker: Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with yogurt or sour cream
Pair with mashed potatoes or crusty bread
Garnish with fresh parsley
Tips for Perfect Rolls
Don’t overfill—rolls may burst
Use half-cooked rice to absorb flavors
Low, slow cooking gives the best texture
Final Thoughts
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are hearty, comforting, and full of homemade goodness. Whether for a special occasion or weekly meal prep, this dish delivers warmth and rich flavor in every bite—and tastes even better the next day!