Stuffed cabbage rolls, also known as cabbage rolls or holubtsi, are a delightful dish that hails from Eastern Europe. These rolls are made by wrapping cooked cabbage leaves around a flavorful filling of ground meat, rice, and a blend of spices. If you’ve always wanted to try making stuffed cabbage rolls, here’s a basic recipe to get you started.

Ingredients

• 1 large head of green cabbage
• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or pork (or a combination of both)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp dried thyme
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup chicken or beef broth
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the cabbage: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Remove the core from the cabbage head and gently separate the leaves, ensuring they stay intact. Blanch the leaves in the boiling water for 3-4 minutes or until they become tender and pliable. Once done, drain the leaves and set them aside to cool.
2. Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Mix everything together thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Assemble the cabbage rolls: Lay a cabbage leaf flat on your work surface, with the stem end facing you. Place a spoonful of the filling (around 1/4 to 1/3 cup, depending on the size of the leaf) near the stem end. Fold the sides of the leaf inward, then roll the leaf up starting from the stem end, ensuring the filling is enclosed. Repeat this process with the remaining leaves and filling.
4. Prepare the sauce: In a medium bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, chicken or beef broth, brown sugar, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. This flavorful sauce will enhance the taste of the cabbage rolls.
5. Cook the cabbage rolls: In a large pot or deep skillet, place a layer of unused or torn cabbage leaves on the bottom to prevent the rolls from sticking. Arrange the cabbage rolls, seam-side down, in a single layer on top of the leaves. Pour the sauce evenly over the rolls. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover and cook over low heat for 1 to 1.5 hours until the cabbage rolls become tender and thoroughly cooked.
6. Serve the cabbage rolls: Carefully remove the cabbage rolls from the pot or skillet and arrange them on a serving platter. Spoon some of the sauce over the rolls, and if desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added flavor and presentation. Serve the remaining sauce on the side to provide an extra burst of taste.

Now that you have the recipe, it’s time to embark on your stuffed cabbage roll adventure. These savory delights will not only warm your heart but also make a delicious addition to your next special meal. Enjoy!