Ina Garten Stuffed Cabbage

When it comes to comforting dishes, few can rival the warmth and heartiness of Ina Garten Stuffed Cabbage. Imagine tender cabbage leaves wrapped delicately around a savory filling, creating a delightful balance of flavor and texture. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate! I remember trying a similar recipe at a family gathering last winter, and the smiles that followed each bite were a testament to its appeal. Ina Garten knows how to make food that feels nostalgic yet simple—a trait we could all use in our busy lives. If you’ve enjoyed my popular stuffed bell peppers, you’re in for a treat with this version, hitting that sweet spot of being easy to make and incredibly satisfying!

What is Ina Garten Stuffed Cabbage?

So, what exactly is Ina Garten Stuffed Cabbage, you ask? Well, let’s dive deep! It’s a delicious dish that involves wrapping cooked cabbage leaves around a filling of seasoned ground meat and rice. But why cabbage, and where did this dish get its name? Rumor has it that it dates back to Eastern European cuisines—but really, who names these dishes anyway? Cabbage might just be one of the most underrated vegetables! After all, they say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and trust me, this dish gets you there! So, are you ready to impress your family at your next gathering? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Ina Garten Stuffed Cabbage

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with Ina Garten Stuffed Cabbage. Firstly, it serves as a sensational main dish that brings family and friends together—just picture those vibrant cabbage rolls lined up like a parade on your dinner table! Don’t forget the cost-saving benefits: cooking at home means you can manage ingredients and flavors while saving money—who doesn’t love that? Lastly, consider the flavorful toppings! A drizzle of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate this dish, akin to how a rich tomato sauce enhances a classic lasagna. If you’re curious about bringing your dinner game to a whole new level, grab your apron, and let’s make this delicious dish!

How to Make Ina Garten Stuffed Cabbage

Quick Overview

Making Ina Garten Stuffed Cabbage is surprisingly easy, yielding satisfying results that everyone will love. With a preparation time of about 30 minutes and a cooking time of about an hour, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time. The combination of tender cabbage and savory filling creates a unique texture and flavor profile that will keep you coming back for seconds!

Key Ingredients for Ina Garten Stuffed Cabbage

• 1 large head of cabbage
• 1 pound ground beef or ground chicken (Halal)
• 1 cup white rice, uncooked
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 egg
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef or chicken broth (Halal)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove the core of the cabbage and gently peel off the leaves. Blanch them in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Remove and set aside to cool.
2. Make the Filling: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant (about 5 minutes). In a bowl, combine the ground meat, uncooked rice, sautéed onions, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and the egg. Mix well until combined.
3. Assemble the Cabbage Rolls: Take a cabbage leaf and place about 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center. Roll it up tightly, tucking the sides in so that the filling doesn’t escape. Repeat until all the leaves and filling are used.
4. Prepare for Cooking: In a large baking dish, spread a small amount of tomato sauce on the bottom. Next, place the cabbage rolls seam side down on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining tomato sauce and broth over the rolls.
5. Bake: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to slightly brown the top.
6. Serve: Let the cabbage rolls rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and enjoy with family!

Top Tips for Perfecting Ina Garten Stuffed Cabbage

To ensure your Ina Garten Stuffed Cabbage turns out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips:

• Substitutions: Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option, all while remaining Halal-compliant!
• Timing: Keep an eye on the baking time; overcooking can cause the cabbage to become mushy. Aim for a tender yet firm texture.
• Avoiding Common Mistakes: Do not overload the cabbage leaves with too much filling—this makes rolling difficult. Stick to the recommended amount for a neat roll.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Ina Garten Stuffed Cabbage can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing them in airtight containers. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When it’s time to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal. This way, you preserve the delicious flavors and comforting texture that makes this dish so special!

With these tips and simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to mastering Ina Garten Stuffed Cabbage. So roll up those sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready for a home-cooked masterpiece that your family will cherish!

Ina Garten Stuffed Cabbage

A comforting dish featuring tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling of ground meat and rice, perfect for family gatherings.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Eastern European

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

Cabbage and Filling

• 1 large head cabbage Remove the core and peel leaves for rolling.
• 1 pound ground beef or ground chicken (Halal) Can substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.
• 1 cup white rice, uncooked Use long-grain rice for best results.
• 1 medium onion, diced Adds flavor to the filling.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the taste.
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds a depth of flavor.
• 1 large egg Helps bind the filling.
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce Use your favorite brand.
• 1 cup beef or chicken broth (Halal) Essential for baking.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing the onion and garlic.
• to taste Fresh parsley for garnish Optional.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove the core of the cabbage and gently peel off the leaves.
• Blanch them in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Remove and set aside to cool.

Making the Filling

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant for about 5 minutes.
• In a bowl, combine the ground meat, uncooked rice, sautéed onions, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and the egg. Mix well until combined.

Assembling the Cabbage Rolls

• Take a cabbage leaf and place about 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center. Roll it up tightly, tucking the sides in so the filling doesn’t escape. Repeat until all leaves and filling are used.

Baking

• In a large baking dish, spread a small amount of tomato sauce on the bottom. Place the cabbage rolls seam side down on top of the sauce.
• Pour the remaining tomato sauce and broth over the rolls. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to slightly brown the top.

Serving

• Let the cabbage rolls rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and enjoy with family!

Notes

Tip: Avoid overloading cabbage leaves with too much filling to maintain neat rolls. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for up to three months. Reheat before serving.

Keyword Comfort Food, Halal Recipe, Ina Garten, Stuffed Cabbage