Print

Country Cabbage Rolls

Country Cabbage Rolls
Print Recipe

Country Cabbage Rolls are a classic, wholesome dish featuring savory meat, rice, and herbs wrapped in tender green cabbage leaves and baked in a tangy tomato sauce. This comforting recipe delivers hearty flavors with simple ingredients, perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep. Adaptable and satisfying, the rolls provide a nostalgic taste of homemade goodness.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 1 large green cabbage (with fresh leaves for wrapping)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped

Protein and Filling

  • 1 lb ground beef or ground pork (or a blend)
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 large egg
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Sauce

  • 2 cups tomato sauce

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cabbage leaves: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Remove the core from the cabbage, then blanch the whole head in boiling water for about 5 minutes until the leaves are pliable. Carefully peel off the leaves and let them cool. Trim thick veins if necessary to make rolling easier.
  2. Make the filling: In a large bowl, combine ground beef (or your choice of meat), cooked rice, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated for a flavorful filling.
  3. Roll the cabbage leaves: Lay each cabbage leaf flat, place a small amount of filling near the base, fold the edges over, and roll tightly from the bottom up to form neat parcels.
  4. Arrange and cook: Line the bottom of a large baking dish or deep skillet with leftover or torn cabbage leaves to prevent sticking. Place the rolls seam side down snugly in the dish. Pour tomato sauce evenly over the rolls.
  5. Simmer until done: Cover the dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 to 1.5 hours, or simmer gently on the stovetop. The cabbage should be tender, and the filling cooked through with flavors melded together.

Notes

  • Use fresh cabbage leaves as they are more pliable and less likely to tear.
  • Don’t overfill each roll to ensure even cooking and easier handling.
  • Make sure rice is fully cooked before mixing to avoid underdone grains.
  • Simmer on low heat to help flavors blend and prevent drying out.
  • Let the rolls rest a few minutes after cooking so they hold together better.

Nutrition

Keywords: cabbage rolls, stuffed cabbage, ground beef, comfort food, traditional recipe, meal prep, one-pot meal

Find it online: https://dishesbylina.com/country-cabbage-rolls/