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### Instructions:
#### 1. **Prepare the Cabbage:**
Start by removing the core of the cabbage. To make the leaves more pliable, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully place the cabbage head in the water and boil it for about 5-7 minutes or until the leaves begin to soften. Once done, remove the cabbage and carefully peel off the outer leaves, setting them aside to cool. If needed, repeat this process until you have enough leaves to wrap your rolls.
#### 2. **Prepare the Filling:**
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or pork, or both), cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix everything together until fully incorporated. The rice adds both flavor and texture, making it a crucial element of the stuffing.
#### 3. **Form the Rolls:**
Take a cabbage leaf and place about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture in the center. Fold in the sides of the leaf, then roll it up tightly to secure the filling inside. Repeat this process with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
#### 4. **Cook the Cabbage Rolls:**
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the pot to prevent them from unrolling during cooking. Once all rolls are in place, add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and brown sugar (if using). Sprinkle in the thyme and stir gently to combine the sauce with the cabbage rolls.
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once it begins to simmer, cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the rolls cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, checking occasionally to make sure the rolls are not sticking to the bottom of the pot. The cabbage should become tender, and the flavors will meld together beautifully.
#### 5. **Serve and Enjoy:**
Once the stuffed cabbage rolls are cooked to perfection, remove them from the pot. Spoon some of the rich tomato sauce over the top, and serve them hot. They go wonderfully with crusty bread or a side of mashed potatoes for a filling meal.
### Tips & Variations:
– **Vegetarian Option:** Swap the meat for a mix of cooked lentils, mushrooms, and rice for a delicious vegetarian version.
– **Sour Cabbage Rolls:** In some traditions, sauerkraut is used instead of fresh cabbage. If you enjoy a tangy twist, give this version a try!
– **Make Ahead:** Cabbage rolls can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to two days or frozen for longer storage. They actually taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
– **Add Herbs:** Customize the sauce with your favorite herbs like oregano, basil, or bay leaves to elevate the flavor.
### Why You’ll Love Stuffed Cabbage Rolls:
Stuffed cabbage rolls are the epitome of comfort food. They’re filling, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or looking to impress at a family gathering, this dish is sure to satisfy. Plus, it’s a great way to use up cabbage, which is a nutritious and affordable vegetable, making this recipe both delicious and economical.
Enjoy making this classic dish, and feel free to experiment with the flavors to make it your own!
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