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Italian Cabbage Rolls

Italian Cabbage Rolls

Discover the cozy comfort of Italian Cabbage Rolls a hearty blend of ground beef rice and rich tomato sauce perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large green cabbage about 12 leaves
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup cooked rice white or brown
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 egg beaten
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 14-ounce can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Slotted Spoon
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Saucepan
  • Baking Dish
  • Aluminum Foil

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add the cabbage leaves and boil for about 2 minutes until soft.
  2. Carefully remove the leaves with a slotted spoon and drain on a kitchen towel.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, egg, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
  4. Mix the filling until well combined and moist.
  5. Take each cabbage leaf, place about 2 tablespoons of filling in the center, and roll tightly, tucking in the sides.
  6. In a saucepan, heat olive oil, add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, and simmer for about 10 minutes.
  7. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), spread a layer of sauce in a baking dish, and arrange the rolls seam-side down.
  8. Pour remaining sauce over the rolls, cover with foil, and bake for 45-50 minutes.
  9. Remove from oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving, garnished with Parmesan and basil.
  10. Make sure the cabbage leaves are softened fully to avoid tearing.
  11. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the beef reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  12. You can replace ground beef with a mixture of mushrooms and lentils for a vegetarian option.
  13. Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste; adding a splash of balsamic vinegar can enhance the flavor of the sauce nicely.
  14. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 20mg
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