Savory Beef & Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Rich Tomato Sauce
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
1 large green cabbage
400 g ground beef
100 g rice (raw or pre-cooked)
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
400 ml tomato sauce
100 g grated cheese (optional)
1 egg (optional, for binding)
1 tablespoon oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh herbs: parsley and thyme
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
Carefully separate the large outer cabbage leaves.
Blanch them in boiling water for 5–7 minutes until soft and flexible.
Drain and set aside to cool.
2. Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine:
Ground beef
Rice
Chopped onion and garlic
Egg (if using)
Salt, pepper, and herbs
Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
3. Form the Cabbage Rolls
Place a portion of filling onto each cabbage leaf.
Roll tightly and fold in the sides to form neat parcels.
4. Assemble the Dish
Spread a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
Arrange the cabbage rolls on top.
Pour the remaining sauce evenly over them.
5. Bake
Cover the dish and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 40–50 minutes.
6. Add the Cheese (Optional)
Remove the cover, sprinkle grated cheese over the top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot, generously spooned with tomato sauce.
Pairs perfectly with:
Fresh bread
A light green salad
Cooking Tips
Blanching the cabbage softens the leaves, making them easier to roll and digest.
Using raw rice allows it to absorb the flavorful juices while cooking—just make sure there’s enough sauce.
Safe cooking temperature: Ground beef should reach at least 70°C internally.
Variations
Moroccan-style: Add paprika, cumin, and coriander for a warm, spiced flavor.
Substitute beef with lamb or a mix of meats.
For a lighter version, skip the cheese on top.
