Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
Special equipment needed:
- Slow cooker
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Remove the core from the cabbage and place it in a pot of boiling water. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the leaves are soft and pliable. Remove the cabbage from the pot and let it cool.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, cooked rice, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Take a cabbage leaf and place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center. Roll the cabbage leaf around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
4. In a slow cooker, mix together the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Place the stuffed cabbage rolls in the slow cooker, seam side down.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
- Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 6-8 hours
Temperature:
- Low heat setting on the slow cooker
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Protein: 28g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or pork can be substituted for ground beef.
- Brown rice or quinoa can be substituted for white rice.
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies can be substituted for plain diced tomatoes.
Variations:
- Add chopped carrots and celery to the filling for extra vegetables.
- Use a mixture of ground beef and ground pork for a different flavor.
- Add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the tomato sauce for a sweeter taste.
Tips and tricks:
- If the cabbage leaves are too thick, use a paring knife to shave off some of the tough stem.
- Use toothpicks to secure the cabbage rolls if they are not staying closed.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream on top for added creaminess.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the cabbage rolls in the microwave or in a covered dish in the oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the cabbage rolls on a bed of mashed potatoes or with a side of crusty bread.
Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or chopped green onions can be sprinkled on top for added color and flavor.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted carrots and parsnips
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cabbage rolls are falling apart, try using toothpicks to secure them.
- If the filling is too dry, add a splash of beef broth or tomato sauce.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the ground beef is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
- Stuffed cabbage rolls are a traditional dish in many Eastern European countries, including Poland, Russia, and Ukraine.
Flavor profiles:
- Savory, slightly sweet, and tangy from the tomato sauce.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the cabbage rolls hot with a side of mashed potatoes and a green salad.
Related Categories
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Region: Polish
Taste: Savory, Tangy, Rich, Hearty, Comforting