Introduction
If you’re searching for a comforting dish that brings both flavor and creativity to the dinner table, look no further than these delightful Stuffed Cabbage Rolls without rice! This variation of a classic recipe not only provides a hearty meal but also allows you to embrace the natural flavors of cabbage and the richness of a savory filling. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, these rolls are bound to impress your guests with their warmth and deliciousness.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground meat (beef or turkey)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated carrots
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Sauce:
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Assembling:
- 1 large head of cabbage
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, remove the core from the cabbage, and carefully peel away whole leaves. Blanch leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until pliable. Set aside.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
4. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, sautéed onions and garlic, grated carrots, egg, bread crumbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Lay a cabbage leaf on a flat surface, and place 2-3 tablespoons of the meat mixture at the center. Roll tightly, tucking in the sides. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
6. In a separate bowl, mix diced tomatoes, tomato paste, olive oil, sugar, water, salt, and pepper to make the sauce.
7. Pour a bit of sauce into a baking dish and line it with stuffed cabbage rolls. Pour remaining sauce over rolls.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour, or until the rolls are cooked through.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Enjoy a delightful experience with these Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, where each bite is a celebration of wholesome ingredients and traditional flavors. Perfect for a family meal or a gathering, these rolls are sure to satisfy and inspire.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Remove the core from the cabbage and carefully peel away whole leaves. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until pliable. Set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and soft.
Step 4: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, sautéed onions and garlic, grated carrots, lightly beaten egg, bread crumbs, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls
Lay a cabbage leaf on a flat surface. Place 2-3 tablespoons of the meat mixture at the center of the leaf. Roll the leaf tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. Repeat this process with the remaining leaves and filling.
Step 6: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, olive oil, sugar, water, and salt and pepper to taste to create the sauce.
Step 7: Layer the Baking Dish
Pour a bit of the prepared sauce into a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls in the dish and then pour the remaining sauce over the rolls.
Step 8: Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the rolls are cooked through.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, garnish the stuffed cabbage rolls with chopped parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use ground chicken or plant-based ground meat as alternatives to beef or turkey.
Storage Instructions
Leftover cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestion
These stuffed cabbage rolls pair well with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Boiling Cabbage Leaves
Blanching the cabbage leaves helps to soften them, making them pliable for rolling. Boil them for just 2-3 minutes for optimal texture.
Sautéing Aromatics
Sauté the onions and garlic in olive oil until fragrant; this infuses the filling with rich flavors.
Mixing the Filling
Ensure that all ingredients for the filling are combined thoroughly to create a cohesive mixture that holds together when rolled.
Rolling Technique
Lay the filling at the center of the leaf, roll tightly while tucking in the sides to prevent filling from spilling out during cooking.
Layering in Baking Dish
To prevent sticking and enhance flavor, pour a bit of sauce on the bottom of the baking dish before adding the stuffed rolls.
Covering While Baking
Covering the dish with foil retains moisture, ensuring the cabbage rolls cook evenly and stay tender.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with chicken, turkey, or even plant-based meat for a different flavor profile.
How can I make these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit bread crumbs altogether, while ensuring that other ingredients used are also gluten-free.
Can I freeze stuffed cabbage rolls?
Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked rolls or cooked ones; just ensure they are sealed well to avoid freezer burn.
What can I serve with stuffed cabbage rolls?
Consider pairing them with a side salad, crusty bread, or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover stuffed cabbage rolls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Experience the joy of cooking and savoring the delightful flavors of these stuffed cabbage rolls. The combination of tender cabbage and a savory filling makes for a comforting dish perfect for dinner gatherings. Enjoy every bite of this creative twist on a classic recipe.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Stuffed Bell Peppers
A similar concept using bell peppers, providing a colorful and flavorful alternative.
Vegetarian Cabbage Rolls
Substitute meat with quinoa, lentils, or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.
Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Use hollowed-out zucchini to create a unique and flavorful stuffed dish.
Shepherd’s Pie
For a hearty meal, try layering the same filling under mashed potatoes for a comforting shepherd’s pie.
Savory Meatballs
Turn the filling into meatballs for a quick and easy appetizer or meal option.
