Introduction
Cabbage rolls are a comforting dish that combines the earthy flavors of cabbage with a hearty filling, often made from ground meat and rice. This dish has roots in various cuisines, including Eastern European, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern traditions, making it a beloved meal across cultures.
## Ingredients
### For the Cabbage Rolls
– **1 large head of cabbage**
– **1 pound ground beef (or turkey)**
– **1 cup cooked rice**
– **1 onion, finely chopped**
– **2 cloves garlic, minced**
– **1 teaspoon paprika**
– **1 teaspoon salt**
– **½ teaspoon black pepper**
– **1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped**
### For the Sauce
– **2 cups tomato sauce**
– **1 tablespoon olive oil**
– **1 tablespoon brown sugar**
– **1 teaspoon dried oregano**
– **Salt and pepper to taste**
## Instructions
### Preparing the Cabbage
1. **Boil the Cabbage**: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place it in the boiling water. Boil for about 5 minutes, or until the outer leaves are soft. Remove the leaves and set aside to cool.
2. **Prepare Filling**: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. In a bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley.
### Assembling the Rolls
3. **Fill the Leaves**: Take a cabbage leaf, place a generous tablespoon of filling at the base, and roll tightly, tucking in the sides. Repeat until all filling is used.
4. **Prepare the Sauce**: In a saucepan, mix tomato sauce, brown sugar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
### Baking
5. **Layer the Rolls**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the rolls seam side down in the dish and pour the remaining sauce over the rolls.
6. **Bake**: Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly.
## History
Cabbage rolls have a rich history, with variations found in many cultures. They are known as “holubtsi” in Ukraine, “sarma” in Turkey, and “dolma” in Greece. Traditionally, they were a way to use leftover meat and vegetables, making them a frugal yet hearty meal.
## Benefits
Cabbage is a nutrient-dense vegetable, high in vitamins K and C, and packed with fiber. The filling provides protein and carbohydrates, making this dish balanced and satisfying.
## Nutrition
– **Calories**: Approximately 300 per serving
– **Protein**: 20g
– **Carbohydrates**: 30g
– **Fat**: 10g
– **Fiber**: 5g
## Conclusion
Cabbage rolls are not just a meal; they are a tradition that brings families together. Whether served at a holiday gathering or a casual dinner, they evoke warmth and comfort. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish with loved ones, creating memories around the table.
### Lovers of Cabbage Rolls
This dish is perfect for those who appreciate hearty, home-cooked meals. It’s a great way to introduce vegetables into your diet while enjoying the flavors of seasoned meat and rice, all wrapped in tender cabbage leaves.
