Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Sauce, Recipe

 Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Sauce, Recipe

For the cabbage rolls:

1 large cabbage (preferably with large, flexible leaves)

500g ground meat (can be beef, pork, or a combination)

1 cup uncooked rice (preferably parboiled or white)

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, crushed

1 egg

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Chopped parsley or chives (optional)

For the tomato sauce:

500ml tomato sauce (can be homemade or store-bought)

1 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, crushed

1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking oil

1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/2 cup water or vegetable broth

Basil or oregano leaves (optional)

Preparation

1. Preparing Cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Remove the core of the cabbage, being careful not to damage the leaves.

Place the cabbage in the boiling water and cook for 5-7 minutes, removing the outer leaves as they soften. Reserve the large, tender leaves (about 10-12 leaves) for the rolls.

Cut the thick part of the central stem from each leaf to make rolling easier.

2. Prepare the filling:

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, uncooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, paprika, and parsley (if using). Mix well until a smooth dough forms.

3. Assemble the rolls:

Place a cabbage leaf on a flat surface. Add about 2 tablespoons of the filling to the center of the leaf.

Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling and roll it like a cigar, starting at the base. Repeat with all the leaves until the filling is gone.

4. Prepare the tomato sauce:

In a saucepan, heat the oil and sauté the onion and garlic until golden.

Add the tomato sauce, sugar, salt, pepper, and water (or vegetable broth). Mix well and cook over low heat for 5-7 minutes. If desired, add basil or oregano for added flavor.

5. Cook the rolls:

In a large pot or baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the bottom.

Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down to prevent them from opening during cooking.

Cover the rolls with the remaining tomato sauce.

Simmer over low heat (with the lid on) for about 40-50 minutes, or until the rice and meat are cooked through. Alternatively, bake in a 350°F (180°C) oven for about 1 hour, covered with aluminum foil.

6. Serve:

Serve the cabbage rolls warm, topped with more tomato sauce. They pair well with mashed potatoes, bread, or a simple salad.