Cabbage Rolls Recipe Ground Beef

Introduction

Cabbage rolls, a comforting and globally embraced dish, feature a savory filling encased in tender cabbage leaves. The “cabbage rolls recipe ground beef” variation is particularly popular, offering a hearty and flavorful meal enjoyed across numerous cultures. From Eastern European holubtsi to Scandinavian kldolmar, ground beef provides a robust base for the filling, making this dish a staple in home kitchens around the world due to its accessibility, affordability, and satisfying taste.

Ingredients

The essential ingredients for cabbage rolls with ground beef include:

1 large head of cabbage
1-1.5 pounds ground beef (can substitute with ground pork or a blend)
1 cup cooked rice (long-grain or medium-grain)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon olive oil

Substitutions: Ground turkey or a plant-based ground can be used for dietary preferences. Brown rice can replace white rice for added fiber. For a tangier flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste to the sauce.

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation is key to tender and flavorful cabbage rolls. 1. Preparing the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Core the cabbage by cutting out the hard stem. Carefully place the whole cabbage head in the boiling water. As the outer leaves soften (about 2-3 minutes), gently peel them off with tongs. Repeat until you have approximately 12-16 leaves. If leaves tear, that is acceptable as long as they are large enough to roll. Pat the leaves dry and trim any thick veins with a knife to make rolling easier. Alternatively, freeze the whole cabbage head overnight and then thaw it. This makes the leaves easier to peel. 2. Preparing the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly with your hands until well combined. This ensures even distribution of the seasoning. 3. Assembling the Rolls: Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Place a generous spoonful (about 1/4 cup) of the ground beef mixture near the stem end of the leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf inward, then roll from the stem end toward the tip, like rolling a burrito. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling. Tip: For a richer flavor, saut the chopped onion in olive oil until softened before adding it to the ground beef mixture. This adds depth of flavor to the filling.

Cooking Instructions

There are several methods to cook cabbage rolls. Each offers a slightly different texture and flavor. 1. Stovetop Cooking: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, spread a thin layer of crushed tomatoes on the bottom to prevent sticking. Arrange the cabbage rolls tightly in the pot, seam-side down. Pour the remaining crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce over the rolls. Add enough water or beef broth to almost cover the rolls. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the cabbage is very tender and the filling is cooked through. 2. Oven Baking: Preheat oven to 350F (175C). In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of crushed tomatoes. Arrange the cabbage rolls tightly in the dish, seam-side down. Pour the remaining crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce over the rolls. Add enough water or beef broth to almost cover the rolls. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the cabbage is very tender and the filling is cooked through. 3. Slow Cooker: Spread a thin layer of crushed tomatoes in the bottom of a slow cooker. Arrange the cabbage rolls in the slow cooker, seam-side down. Pour the remaining crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce over the rolls. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the cabbage is very tender. Note: The internal temperature of the ground beef filling should reach 160F (71C) to ensure it is fully cooked.

Serving Suggestions

Cabbage rolls are a complete meal on their own but pair well with a variety of sides.

A dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt is a classic accompaniment, adding a creamy tanginess.
Mashed potatoes or crusty bread are perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
A simple green salad or steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the rolls.
For a more traditional Eastern European meal, serve with a side of rye bread and pickled vegetables.

Garnish with fresh parsley or dill for added freshness and visual appeal. Plating the cabbage rolls with a generous amount of sauce ensures each bite is flavorful.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Enhance your cabbage rolls with these tips and avoid common pitfalls:

Tip: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ground beef filling is cooked to a safe temperature.
Tip: Don’t overcook the cabbage. Overcooked cabbage becomes mushy and loses its texture. Aim for tender but not falling apart.
Common Mistake: Overfilling the cabbage leaves makes them difficult to roll and can cause them to burst during cooking.
Common Mistake: Not seasoning the ground beef mixture adequately results in bland cabbage rolls. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Tip: For extra flavor, brown the ground beef before mixing it with the other filling ingredients. This adds depth and richness to the dish.

Proper seasoning and careful cooking will elevate the flavor and texture of the final dish.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Mastering a “cabbage rolls recipe ground beef” brings a world of culinary satisfaction. The hearty flavor, rich cultural heritage, and adaptability of this dish make it a welcome addition to any home cook’s repertoire. From family dinners to special occasions, the savory aroma and satisfying taste of cabbage rolls are sure to please. Embark on your culinary journey, try this recipe at home, and discover the joy of creating delicious meals. For more inspiring cooking guides and recipes, visit foodrecipestory.com.