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.
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.