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### Instructions
#### 1. Prepare the Cabbage
– Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
– Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the head in the boiling water.
– Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then peel off the softened outer leaves. Repeat until you have about 12–14 large leaves. Set aside.
#### 2. Make the Filling
– In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, paprika, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
#### 3. Assemble the Cabbage Rolls
– Place a cabbage leaf on a flat surface, vein-side down.
– Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the filling onto the center of the leaf.
– Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
#### 4. Prepare the Tomato Sauce
– Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
– Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
– Stir in the crushed tomatoes, sugar, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and broth. Simmer for 10 minutes.
#### 5. Cook the Stuffed Cabbages
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish.
– Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls.
– Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
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### Tips for Success
– **Choose the Right Cabbage**: Green cabbage is traditional, but Savoy cabbage is a great alternative for its delicate texture.
– **Parboil Gently**: Softening the leaves makes them pliable and easy to roll.
– **Double the Sauce**: For extra sauciness, prepare an additional batch of tomato sauce.
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### Variations
– **Vegetarian Version**: Use lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based meat alternatives instead of ground meat.
– **Spicy Kick**: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling.
– **Grain-Free**: Substitute cauliflower rice for the cooked rice.
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### Serving Suggestions
– **Side Dish**: Serve with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles for a hearty meal.
– **Bread**: A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the sauce.
– **Salad**: Pair with a fresh green salad for a lighter accompaniment.
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### Make It Ahead
Stuffed cabbages can be assembled up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply bake them when you’re ready to serve. They also freeze beautifully, making them a great meal-prep option for busy weeks.
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### Conclusion
The **Best Stuffed Cabbages** are a delicious and comforting dish that brings together classic flavors in a heartwarming package. With its tender cabbage leaves, savory filling, and flavorful sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday or a simple family dinner, it’s a dish that always hits the spot.
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