Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Download HD Image

Watch Video Jump to Recipe

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: A Comfort Food Classic

Stuffed cabbage rolls, also known as *golabki* in Polish or *sarma* in many Balkan countries, are a hearty and flavorful dish that transcends cultures. This humble yet satisfying meal consists of tender cabbage leaves carefully wrapped around a savory filling, creating a delightful explosion of textures and tastes.

The heart of the stuffed cabbage roll lies in its filling. Typically, a mixture of ground meat (often beef, pork, or a combination of both), rice, and finely chopped onions, garlic, and herbs are expertly blended. This mixture is then seasoned with a variety of spices like paprika, black pepper, and sometimes even a touch of allspice, adding depth and complexity to the flavor profile.

Once the filling is prepared, it’s meticulously nestled into blanched cabbage leaves, which have been softened to allow for easy rolling. The rolls are then tightly packed into a pot, often layered with tomato sauce, sauerkraut, or a combination of both. This simmering process infuses the cabbage rolls with a tangy, savory goodness that’s simply irresistible.

The simmering time varies, but the goal is to achieve perfectly cooked rice and tender, melt-in-your-mouth cabbage. The sauce, enriched by the flavors of the filling and cabbage, becomes a luscious gravy that complements the rolls beautifully. Stuffed cabbage rolls are often served hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt, adding a creamy, cooling contrast to the rich flavors.

Stuffed cabbage rolls are more than just food; they are a symbol of family, tradition, and comfort. Whether enjoyed as a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to warm your heart and soul.

Looking for the perfect comfort food? Discover the deliciousness of stuffed cabbage rolls! Try our family recipe today! #stuffedcabbagerolls #golabki #sarma #comfortfood #recipes #foodie #homemade #dinnerideas #cabbage #meatlover #recipe

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Ingredients

1 cabbage ( frozen 1 to 2 days before then defrost before using need couple hours to defrost) or use the traditional way and cook your cabbage in hot water then take out one by one

Filling

2 cups washed short grain rice1 cup chopped parsley1 large chopped onion2 medium size chopped tomato2 tbsp dried mint or 1/4 cup fresh chopped mint1 tsp MAGGI seasoning (8 to 10 drops)1/2 tbsp salt1/4 cup lemon juice1/4 cup olive oil2 tbsp pomegranate molasses1 tbsp tomato paste1 tsp 7 spice1 tsp paprika1/2 tsp black pepper

Sauce

2 cups hot water2 tbsp tomato paste2 tbsp olive oil1/2 tsp MAGGI seasoning1 tsp salt( if you like it lemony you can add 1/4 cup lemon juice to the sauce)

Instruction

1: freeze the cabbage then defrost this way easier to take off the leaves and no need to boil them in hot water already they will be soft.2: cut the inner core of the cabbage and take out the leaves one by one then wash.3: wash the rice ( soak for 10 minutes if you like your rice extra soft) then mix with all the chopped vegetables and spices listed above with the MAGGI seasoning4: Cut the larger cabbage leaves in half along the rib, then cut out the rib completely; reserve the ribs to use in the bottom of the pot.5: start filling each leave then roll very tight so they don’t open.6: in a pot place sliced tomatoes and the cabbage ribs then place the cabbage rolls when done cover with cabbage leaves7: mix all the ingredients listed above for the save then add on top8: add garlic cloves or the whole head of garlic let it boil then cover and lower the temperature to low and let it simmer for about 1 hour or more till the cabbage leaves tender and soft.9: enjoy with yogurt or lemon juice.