Cabbage rolls have long been a beloved comfort food, and this old-fashioned recipe is a true classic. With tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful mixture of ground beef, rice, and a touch of onion, these stuffed cabbage rolls are a delicious and satisfying dish that will transport you back to simpler times. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, these cabbage rolls are sure to impress. So let’s dive into this timeless recipe that will warm your heart and soul.
How to make Stuffed Cabbage Rolls?
1. In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add rice and stir. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. This will ensure the rice is tender and fully cooked.
2. Bring a large, wide saucepan of lightly salted water to a boil. Add cabbage leaves and cook for 2 to 4 minutes or until softened. This blanching step will make the cabbage leaves pliable and easier to roll.
3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, 1 cup of cooked rice, chopped onion, egg, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of tomato soup. Mix the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring they are evenly distributed. This flavorful mixture will be the filling for your cabbage rolls.
4. Divide the beef mixture evenly among the cabbage leaves. Roll each leaf tightly around the filling, and secure them with toothpicks or string. The rolls should be compact and well-sealed to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
5. In a large skillet over medium heat, place the cabbage rolls and pour the remaining tomato soup over the top. The tomato soup will add rich flavor and help keep the rolls moist during cooking. Cover the skillet and bring it to a boil.
6. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the rolls simmer for about 40 minutes, stirring and basting them with the liquid from the skillet often. This will ensure even cooking and infuse the rolls with the delicious flavors of the tomato soup.
7. After simmering, remove the toothpicks or string from the cabbage rolls and serve them hot. The rolls should be tender and packed with savory goodness.
What to Serve With Stuffed Cabbage Rolls?
Stuffed cabbage rolls are delightful on their own, but if you’re looking to complement their flavors with some delicious side dishes, here are a few options:
1. Adrienne’s Cucumber Salad: The crisp and refreshing flavors of a cucumber salad make for a perfect accompaniment to the rich and savory cabbage rolls.
2. Rye Bread: Serve slices of hearty rye bread alongside the cabbage rolls. The robust flavors of rye will complement the dish wonderfully.
3. Basic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice that pairs well with many dishes. They provide a comforting and filling addition to your meal.
4. Spaetzle Dumplings: These tender, German-style dumplings are a delightful choice to soak up the flavorful sauce from the cabbage rolls.
5. Tasty Roasted Beets: Roasted beets offer a colorful and nutritious side dish option. Their earthy sweetness provides a nice contrast to the savory cabbage rolls.
Storing and Freezing Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
If you have leftovers or want to prepare the cabbage rolls in advance, here’s what you need to know about storing and freezing them:
- Refrigeration: Store the cooled cabbage rolls in a shallow, airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place them in the oven for the best results. You can also use the microwave for a quick reheating option.
- Freezing: If you’d like to freeze the cabbage rolls, it’s best to do so before cooking them. Fill and tightly roll the cabbage rolls as per the instructions, then flash freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the rolls to a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To cook, thaw the rolls in the refrigerator overnight and bake according to the recipe.
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option or have dietary restrictions. The rolls will still be delicious and flavorful.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
While the recipe calls for white rice, you can certainly use brown rice if you prefer. Keep in mind that brown rice may require a slightly longer cooking time.
Can I use homemade tomato sauce instead of condensed tomato soup?
Condensed tomato soup provides convenience and a distinct flavor profile to this recipe. However, if you prefer to use homemade tomato sauce, feel free to do so. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to ensure the rolls have enough flavor.
Can I add additional vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! You can experiment with adding vegetables like finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to the filling mixture. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure all the ingredients are cooked through.
Can I use cabbage leaves that are torn or damaged?
It’s best to use cabbage leaves that are intact and free from tears or damage. The leaves need to be pliable enough to roll without falling apart. If you encounter torn leaves, you can try overlapping them or using additional leaves to create a sturdy roll.
Old Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup water
- 1/3 cup uncooked white rice
- 8 cabbage leaves
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 egg slightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 10.75 ounces can condensed tomato soup
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add rice and stir. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Bring a large, wide saucepan of lightly salted water to a boil. Add cabbage leaves and cook for 2 to 4 minutes or until softened; drain.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, 1 cup cooked rice, onion, egg, salt, and pepper, along with 2 tablespoons of tomato soup. Mix thoroughly.
- Divide the beef mixture evenly among the cabbage leaves. Roll and secure them with toothpicks or string.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, place the cabbage rolls and pour the remaining tomato soup over the top. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 40 minutes, stirring and basting with the liquid often.
Old Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Ingredients:
- 2/3 cup water
- 1/3 cup uncooked white rice
- 8 cabbage leaves
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 egg, slightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 (10.75 ounces) can condensed tomato soup
Directions:
In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add rice and stir. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
Bring a large, wide saucepan of lightly salted water to a boil. Add cabbage leaves and cook for 2 to 4 minutes or until softened; drain.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, 1 cup cooked rice, onion, egg, salt, and pepper, along with 2 tablespoons of tomato soup. Mix thoroughly.
Divide the beef mixture evenly among the cabbage leaves. Roll and secure them with toothpicks or string.
In a large skillet over medium heat, place the cabbage rolls and pour the remaining tomato soup over the top. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 40 minutes, stirring and basting with the liquid often.
