why make this recipe
Stuffed cabbage is a delicious and comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. It combines tender cabbage leaves with a savory filling of meat and spices, all covered in rich tomato sauce. This recipe is not only satisfying, but it also makes use of simple ingredients that many people already have at home. Plus, it’s great for meal prep and can be enjoyed as leftovers.
how to make Stuffed Cabbage
Ingredients
- 1 large green cabbage
- 1 lb ground pork or beef (450 g)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 egg
- 1⁄2 cup breadcrumbs (40 g)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cups tomato passata or sauce (480 ml)
- Salt, pepper, pinch of nutmeg
- 2 tbsp olive oil (30 ml)
Directions
- Prepare cabbage – Boil the whole cabbage for 10 minutes. After boiling, separate 8 large leaves and trim the thick ribs.
- Make filling – In a bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, and seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Form rolls – Take a cabbage leaf, place some filling inside it, and roll it up like a parcel. Make sure to tuck in the ends so the filling doesn’t fall out.
- Arrange & sauce – In a baking dish, arrange the rolls seam side down. Pour the tomato sauce over the top of the rolls.
- Bake – Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes. Serve warm.
how to serve Stuffed Cabbage
Stuffed cabbage is best served warm. You can add extra tomato sauce on top or serve it with a dollop of sour cream. This dish pairs well with crusty bread or a simple salad, making for a hearty meal.
how to store Stuffed Cabbage
If you have leftovers, you can store stuffed cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at a low temperature or microwave it until heated through. You can also freeze unbaked stuffed cabbage for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
tips to make Stuffed Cabbage
- Choose the right cabbage: Look for a large green cabbage with flexible leaves that are easy to separate.
- Don’t overfill: Make sure not to overstuff the leaves. This will help them roll easily and prevent them from tearing.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add herbs and spices such as thyme, dill, or paprika to customize the flavor.
variation
You can try different types of meat like ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option. Additionally, add some grated carrots or cooked rice to the filling for added texture and flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cabbage?
Yes, you can use frozen cabbage. Make sure to thaw it completely and separate the leaves before using for stuffing.
2. How can I make stuffed cabbage vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, you can use lentils, quinoa, or sautéed vegetables as the filling instead of meat.
3. Can I make stuffed cabbage ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
