Cabbage Rolls

Ingredients:

For the cabbage rolls:

• 1 medium head of cabbage (green or savoy)
• 1 lb ground beef (or pork, or a mix of both)
• 1/2 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley (optional)

For the sauce:

• 2 cups tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
• 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for a slight sweetness)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional for a tangy twist)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cabbage:
   • Bring a large pot of water to boil. Cut the core out of the cabbage and carefully peel off the outer leaves. You may need to boil the cabbage head for a few minutes, and as the leaves soften, gently peel them off. Blanch the leaves until they are soft but still hold their shape. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. Make the Filling:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix everything together until well combined.
3. Assemble the Rolls:
   • Take a cabbage leaf and trim off the thick vein at the base (so it rolls easily). Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf.
   • Fold in the sides of the cabbage leaf, then roll it tightly from the bottom up, securing the filling inside.
   • Repeat for the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a separate bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, lemon juice, oregano, and black pepper.
5. Cook the Rolls:
   • In a large pot, place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in layers. Pour the sauce over the rolls, making sure they are well-covered. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
   • Cover the pot and let it cook for about 1 to 1.5 hours on low heat, checking occasionally. The cabbage rolls should be tender and the filling cooked through.
6. Serve:
   • Once the cabbage rolls are done, serve them hot with some of the sauce spooned over the top. You can garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your delicious cabbage rolls! They’re perfect with mashed potatoes or a simple side salad.

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