As the crisp autumn air begins to sweep in, there’s a special kind of comfort found in dishes that warm the soul and fill the kitchen with inviting aromas. Cabbage rolls, a cherished dish in many cultures, perfectly embody this comfort. Wrapped in tender cabbage leaves, these rolls are packed with a savory, heartwarming filling that makes each bite deeply satisfying. My own connection to this dish is steeped in family tradition and nostalgia, bringing back memories of cozy evenings spent under my grandmother’s gentle guidance.
I remember vividly those days, returning home to the smell of spices and simmering sauce, my grandmother waiting with the patience of a saint as she taught me how to wrap the perfect roll. It was more than just cooking; it was her way of weaving her love into the food she prepared, a love that resonated with every bite. Today, I’m excited to pass along this recipe, infused with memories and seasoned with tradition. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and bring this comforting recipe to life in your kitchen.
Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Ingredients:
For the filling:
9 cabbage leaves
1 pound lean ground beef
1/2 medium onion, finely diced
1/2 cup milk
1 egg, beaten
1 cup cooked rice
2 cloves garlic, minced
Cheese of your choice for topping (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the sauce:
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons ketchup
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions:
Start with Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gently blanch the cabbage leaves in boiling water for about 2 minutes until just softened. Drain and set aside to cool.
Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, milk, egg, cooked rice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed and the filling is cohesive.
Roll ‘Em Up: Lay a cabbage leaf flat on your work surface. Place a good amount of the filling in the center. Fold in the sides and roll up the leaf to enclose the filling. Place seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and lemon juice. Pour this sauce evenly over the cabbage rolls in the dish.
Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. After this time, uncover, sprinkle your chosen cheese over the top, and return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Savor: Let the cabbage rolls cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
These cabbage rolls not only offer a delicious taste but also bring a piece of history and warmth to your table. Whether revisiting cherished memories or creating new ones, this dish is sure to wrap you and your loved ones in comfort. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!