Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Ingredients:

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 1 large head of cabbage
• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preparing the Cabbage Leaves:

1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
2. Carefully core the cabbage and place it in the boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until the outer leaves soften.
3. Using tongs, remove the softened leaves and place them on a clean towel to cool.

Making the Filling:

1. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add the ground beef (or beef-pork mix) to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Transfer the meat mixture to a large bowl. Add cooked rice, beaten egg, crushed tomatoes, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.

Rolling the Cabbage Rolls:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Take a cabbage leaf and place a spoonful of the meat mixture in the center. Roll the leaf, tucking in the sides as you go, creating a neat roll. Repeat with remaining leaves and mixture.

Making the Sauce and Assembling:

1. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed tomatoes, beef or vegetable broth, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to prepare the sauce.
2. Spread a thin layer of the sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
3. Place the rolled cabbage leaves seam-side down in the dish, packing them snugly together.
4. Pour the remaining sauce over the cabbage rolls, ensuring they are fully covered.
5. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the cabbage is tender.

Serving:

1. Carefully remove the cabbage rolls from the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes.
2. Serve the rolls with a spoonful of sauce from the baking dish on top. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill.

This recipe offers a delicious and comforting meal with the combination of tender cabbage and flavorful meat filling. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner!