Incredible Cabbage Rolls
Incredible Cabbage Rolls Recipe - A Flavorful and Easy-to-Make Dish
Introduction
Cabbage rolls are a classic comfort food dish that is loved by many. The combination of tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory meat mixture and topped with a flavorful tomato sauce makes for a delicious and satisfying meal. In this recipe, we will show you how to make incredible cabbage rolls that are sure to impress your family and friends.
History
Cabbage rolls have a long history and are a popular dish in many cultures around the world. They are believed to have originated in Eastern Europe, where they are known as golabki in Poland, holubtsi in Ukraine, and sarma in the Balkans. Cabbage rolls were traditionally made with a filling of ground meat, rice, and spices, wrapped in cabbage leaves and cooked in a tomato-based sauce. Over the years, many variations of the recipe have emerged, with different regions adding their own unique twists to the dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (454 g) ground sirloin
- 0.33 cup uncooked rice
- 1 beaten egg
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 6 large cabbage leaves
- 1 medium white onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter
Sauce
- 1 can undiluted tomato soup
- 1-0.25 cup water
- 0.5 cup chopped celery
- 1 tsp minced fresh parsley
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
How to prepare
- In a bowl, mix together the ground sirloin, rice, egg, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Boil the cabbage leaves in water for 5 to 8 minutes, or until they become tender.
- Drain the cabbage leaves after removing them from the water.
- Take equal portions of the meat mixture and place them in the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold the ends over and secure with wooden toothpicks.
- In a large skillet, sauté the onion in butter until it becomes tender, but not browned.
- Add the tomato soup and the remaining ingredients to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the mixture for 10 minutes.
- Place the cabbage rolls in the tomato mixture, cover, and simmer for 2 hours.
Variations
- For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground sirloin with cooked lentils or mushrooms.
- You can add different spices and herbs to the meat mixture, such as paprika, garlic, or dill, to customize the flavor of the cabbage rolls.
- Instead of tomato soup, you can use a homemade tomato sauce or marinara sauce for a fresher taste.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to boil the cabbage leaves until they are tender but still firm enough to hold the filling.
- Use toothpicks to secure the cabbage rolls and prevent them from unraveling during cooking.
- Sautéing the onions in butter adds a rich flavor to the tomato sauce.
- Simmering the cabbage rolls in the tomato sauce for a longer period of time allows the flavors to meld together and creates a more delicious dish.
Serving Suggestions
Cabbage rolls can be served as a main dish with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread. They also pair well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
Cooking Techniques
The key cooking techniques for making cabbage rolls include boiling the cabbage leaves, sautéing the onions, and simmering the rolls in the tomato sauce. These techniques help to ensure that the cabbage rolls are tender, flavorful, and well-cooked.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have ground sirloin, you can use ground beef, turkey, or pork as a substitute. You can also use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier option.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the cabbage rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them until you are ready to cook them. This is a great make-ahead dish for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the cabbage rolls on a platter garnished with fresh parsley or dill for a beautiful presentation. You can also drizzle some extra tomato sauce on top for a more saucy dish.
Pairing Recommendations
Cabbage rolls pair well with a variety of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. They also go well with a glass of red wine or a cold beer.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the rolls in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of cabbage rolls contains approximately 300 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of cabbage rolls contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of cabbage rolls contains approximately 12 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of cabbage rolls contains approximately 15 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Cabbage rolls are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate.
Alergens
Cabbage rolls contain eggs and wheat (from the tomato soup), which may be allergens for some individuals.
Summary
Cabbage rolls are a nutritious and satisfying meal that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy choice for a family dinner.
Summary
Incredible cabbage rolls are a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. With a flavorful meat filling wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and simmered in a savory tomato sauce, these cabbage rolls are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Incredible Cabbage Rolls. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in the countryside. My grandmother was known throughout the village for her delicious cooking, and she would often host large gatherings where she would serve up her famous dishes to all the friends and family who came to visit.
One day, while I was helping my grandmother in the kitchen, she pulled out a worn and tattered recipe book from the back of the cupboard. She flipped through the pages until she came to a recipe for Cabbage Rolls. As she read through the ingredients and instructions, I could see the twinkle in her eye and the smile on her face. She told me that this was a recipe that had been passed down through the generations in our family, and that it was one of her favorites to make.
As she began to gather the ingredients and prepare the cabbage rolls, I watched in awe as she worked her magic in the kitchen. She chopped, sautéed, and rolled the cabbage leaves with such precision and care, it was like watching a master at work. The smell that wafted through the kitchen as the rolls baked in the oven was simply divine, and I knew that this was a recipe I had to learn for myself.
Over the years, I watched my grandmother make her Incredible Cabbage Rolls countless times, and each time, I would make sure to pay close attention to every step. I would ask questions, take notes, and practice on my own whenever I had the chance. And slowly but surely, I began to master the art of making these delicious rolls just like my grandmother.
As I grew older and started a family of my own, I continued to make my grandmother's Incredible Cabbage Rolls for special occasions and family gatherings. My children would always beg me to make them, and I would smile knowing that I was carrying on a tradition that had been passed down through the generations.
But it wasn't just the recipe itself that made these cabbage rolls so special to me. It was the memories that were attached to them - the time spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, the laughter and stories shared over a plate of piping hot rolls, and the love and care that went into every bite. These cabbage rolls weren't just a dish to me, they were a connection to my past and a way to honor the women who came before me.
And so, whenever I make my Incredible Cabbage Rolls now, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a deep sense of pride. I know that my grandmother is looking down on me from above, smiling at the thought of her recipe living on in the hands of her beloved granddaughter. And I hope that one day, I can pass on this recipe to my own grandchildren, so that they too can experience the joy and love that comes with a plate of these incredible rolls.