This stuffed cabbage recipe is perfect for a satisfying dinner, combining savory flavors with a rich tomato sauce. Follow these simple steps for a crowd-pleasing dish.

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls

  • 1 large head of cabbage (about 2-3 lbs)
  • 1 cup soya granules (or substitute with pork, beef or turkey, if non-vegetarian)
  • 1 cup cooked white rice
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika

For the Tomato Sauce

  • 2 cups tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
  • 1 cup water (or beef broth)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

  1. Boil the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Remove the core from the cabbage and place it in hot water. Let it sit for 7-10 minutes or until the leaves are soft and pliable. Gently peel off the softened leaves using tongs. Set aside 10-12 large leaves, as these will be your wraps.
  2. Trim the Leaves: If the leaves’ veins are thick, trim them slightly for easier rolling.

Step 2: Make the Filling

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the soya granules, cooked rice, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

  1. Fill Each Leaf: Place 2-3 tablespoons of filling onto the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold in the sides and roll from the bottom up to create a tight roll. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

  1. Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the tomato sauce, water, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well until smooth.

Step 5: Cook the Cabbage Rolls

  1. Layer the Rolls: In a large pot or Dutch oven, add a thin layer of tomato sauce to prevent sticking. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the pot, forming a single layer. Pour a portion of the tomato sauce over the rolls, and then add a second layer if needed, covering with the remaining sauce.
  2. Simmer: Cover the pot with a lid and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let the rolls cook for 1.5-2 hours on low heat until the cabbage is tender and the flavors are fully melded.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Plate and Garnish: Carefully remove the cabbage rolls from the pot and place them on a serving plate. Pour extra sauce over the rolls, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

  • Softening Cabbage: Freezing the cabbage overnight and then thawing it can make leaves even softer, ideal if you’re short on time.
  • Flavor Boost: For added richness, add a dash of smoked paprika to the sauce.
  • Side Dish Pairings: Serve with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Enjoy this classic stuffed cabbage recipe that’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table! These cabbage rolls are packed with flavor and make great leftovers, perfect for reheating throughout the week.