Italian stuffed cabbage rolls

Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a hearty, comforting dish filled with savory ground meat, rice, and aromatic seasonings, all wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and baked in a rich tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, showcasing a unique twist on classic Italian flavors while incorporating wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1/2 cup cooked rice
• 1/4 cup finely diced onions
• 1/4 cup finely diced carrots
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cabbage:

• 1 large head of green cabbage
• Water for blanching

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 cups tomato sauce or marinara
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cabbage:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and separate the leaves.
3. Blanch the cabbage leaves in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes until softened. Remove and drain.

2. Make the Filling:

1. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, onions, carrots, Parmesan cheese, garlic, egg, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well incorporated.
2. Season the mixture with salt and pepper.

3. Assemble the Rolls:

1. Lay a cabbage leaf flat and place about 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center.
2. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll it up tightly like a burrito.
3. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.

4. Prepare the Sauce:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine tomato sauce, broth, and sugar if using.
2. Pour a small amount of the sauce into the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking.

5. Bake:

1. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the baking dish.
2. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls, ensuring they’re well coated.
3. Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes.
4. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

6. Serve:

1. Garnish the rolls with fresh basil or parsley.
2. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side of salad.

Conclusion:

Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a delightful fusion of classic flavors and comforting textures. The tender cabbage leaves encase a rich and flavorful filling, while the tangy tomato sauce ties it all together. This recipe is perfect for meal prep or as a crowd-pleasing dish for any gathering. Savor the warmth and heartiness of this Italian-inspired comfort food!