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- Prepare the Cabbage:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and gently peel off the leaves, keeping them intact.
- Submerge the cabbage leaves in the boiling water and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are pliable but still firm. Remove with a slotted spoon and place them in a colander to drain and cool.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked onion and garlic, uncooked rice, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble the Rolls:
- Place a spoonful of the meat mixture in the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly, securing the filling inside.
- Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a large baking dish.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, mix together the ketchup, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, brown sugar, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the cabbage rolls, making sure each roll is well covered.
- Bake the Rolls:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Allow the cabbage rolls to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy them hot, alongside your favorite side dishes.
Conclusion:
Cabbage rolls are more than just a meal; they’re a comforting reminder of home and tradition. This recipe, with its flavorful meat and rice filling wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and covered in a rich tomato sauce, embodies the essence of hearty, satisfying comfort food. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner, a special occasion, or a simple weeknight meal, these cabbage rolls are sure to impress with their taste and presentation.
They also freeze well, making them a convenient option for meal prepping.
Embrace the warmth and nostalgia of this classic dish, and let every bite remind you of the simple pleasures of home-cooked comfort.
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