Dive into the heartwarming world of traditional Jewish cuisine with our delightful Russian Jewish Cabbage Rolls! This comforting dish, filled with savory ground beef and tender rice, wrapped in soft cabbage leaves, is sure to become a family favorite. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, these cabbage rolls are not just a meal; they’re a celebration of heritage and taste. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is your ticket to culinary bliss. Ready to roll? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: Jewish
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 large cabbage
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the cabbage by carefully removing the core and placing the whole head in a large pot of boiling water. Gently separate the leaves as they soften, removing them carefully to prevent tearing.
- Trim the thick stem from each cabbage leaf to make them more pliable for rolling. Set aside and let the leaves cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, uncooked rice, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Take each cabbage leaf and place a small portion of the meat mixture near the stem end. Roll the leaf tightly, folding in the sides to create a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
- Grease a large baking dish or Dutch oven. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down, packing them closely together.
- Pour the entire can of tomato sauce over the cabbage rolls, ensuring they are well covered. If needed, add a little water to ensure moisture.
- Cover the dish with a lid or tight aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 1 hour.
- Check the cabbage rolls halfway through cooking, adding more liquid if they appear dry. The rice should be fully cooked, and the meat tender.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. The cabbage rolls can be served hot, with additional sauce if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cabbage: Opt for a large, firm head of cabbage for the best results. Savoy cabbage is a great choice due to its tender leaves that are easier to roll.
- Prepare Ahead: You can prepare the cabbage rolls a day in advance. Just assemble them, cover, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to experiment with the filling! Adding herbs like dill or parsley, or even incorporating cooked mushrooms can elevate the flavor profile.
- Check for Doneness: Halfway through baking, peek under the lid to ensure the rolls aren’t drying out. If they are, add a splash of water or more tomato sauce for moisture.
- Serve with a Twist: For an extra touch, serve your cabbage rolls with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top. This adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 45mg
