classic stuffed cabbage recipe

The Best classic stuffed cabbage recipe

Stuffed cabbage is a classic dish that has been a staple in many households for generations. My family has been making this dish for as long as I can remember. It reminds me of cozy dinners with my kids and the comforting aroma filling the kitchen.

This recipe is perfect for a family gathering or a quiet night at home. It is a hearty and nourishing meal that combines the goodness of cabbage, a vegetable that is rich in vitamins and minerals, with a savory filling. The taste is a delightful blend of tangy and sweet flavors.

The key to making great stuffed cabbage is to get the cabbage leaves just right. They should be tender but still hold their shape. This is achieved by blanching the cabbage leaves in boiling water for just the right amount of time.

The filling is a mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices that is cooked until the flavors meld together. Stuffing the cabbage leaves with this filling and then baking them in a tomato sauce creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. The result is a dish that is full of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.

It is a dish that is both comforting and satisfying and has a special place in my heart and in my kitchen.

Classic Stuffed Cabbage Recipe

4.7 from 1176 votes

This classic stuffed cabbage recipe is a hearty and comforting dish. It is perfect for family gatherings or a quiet night at home.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time1 hour 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hours
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cabbage

1 large head of cabbage

For the Filling

1 lb ground beef
1 cup uncooked white rice
1 medium onion
2 cloves garlic
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

2 cups tomato sauce
1 cup water
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt

👨‍🍳Directions

1First, prepare the cabbage by removing the core and separating the leaves.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
3Add the cabbage leaves and blanch for 3-5 minutes until the leaves are wilted and tender.
4Remove the leaves from the water and set aside to cool.
5Next, prepare the filling.
6In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, uncooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and black pepper.
7Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
8Preheat the oven to 350°F.
9Lay the cabbage leaves flat on a cutting board and place a spoonful of the filling mixture at the base of each leaf.
10Roll the leaves tightly around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go.
11Place the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in a baking dish.
12In a separate bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, water, sugar, and salt to make the sauce.
13Pour the sauce over the stuffed cabbage rolls in the baking dish, ensuring they are evenly coated.
14Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour.
15Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
16Serve the stuffed cabbage hot, spooning some of the sauce over the top.
17Enjoy this classic dish with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Baking dish
Mixing bowl
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 100mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground beef. You can also add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the filling for extra nutrition and flavor.

Watch Video Of How Classic Stuffed Cabbage Recipe Works

This classic stuffed cabbage recipe is always a good idea for any occasion. It is a dish that can be made ahead of time and then reheated when needed.

It is perfect for family gatherings or a quiet night at home. The leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply place the stuffed cabbage rolls in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F until heated through. This dish is a comforting and satisfying meal that will become a family favorite.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Stuffed Cabbage

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Assemble the stuffed cabbage rolls and pour the sauce over them as instructed. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time.

Can I freeze stuffed cabbage?

Yes, stuffed cabbage freezes well. Assemble the stuffed cabbage rolls and pour the sauce over them. Place the baking dish in the freezer until the mixture is frozen solid. Once frozen, wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding an extra 15-20 minutes to the covered baking time.

Can I use a different type of cabbage?

While green cabbage is the most traditional, you can use other types of cabbage for this recipe. Savoy or Napa cabbage can be used as a substitute. They are more tender and have a milder flavor, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or using a mixture of cooked quinoa and vegetables. You can also add lentils or chickpeas to the filling for extra protein and texture.

Can I use a different type of grain?

Yes, you can use a different type of grain in the filling. Brown rice, quinoa, or farro can be used as a substitute for white rice. Keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted accordingly. If you are using a grain that requires less cooking time, you may want to cook it separately and then mix it into the filling before assembling the stuffed cabbage rolls.

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