Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a hearty and comforting dish, filled with a mix of meats and rice, all wrapped in tender cabbage leaves. This traditional recipe is perfect for family gatherings and is loved by many for its delicious flavors and simple preparation.

Why Make This Recipe Making Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls is a great way to enjoy a filling meal that satisfies everyone at the table. It’s a classic recipe that has been passed down through generations. The rolls are not only tasty but also a wonderful way to use cabbage, offering a unique twist to your dinner routine.

How to Make Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Ingredients

• 1 head of cabbage
• 1 lb ground sausage
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup long grain rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp white vinegar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and add the whole head to the boiling water. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the leaves are soft. Remove the leaves and set them aside to cool.

3. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until soft. In a large bowl, mix the ground sausage, ground beef, cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Combine everything well.

4. Take a cabbage leaf and lay it flat. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf. Fold the sides in and roll it up tightly. Repeat this step with the remaining leaves and filling.

5. In a separate bowl, mix the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, brown sugar, and white vinegar to make a sweet and tangy sauce.

6. Spread a little sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish. Place the cabbage rolls seam side down in the dish. Pour the rest of the sauce over the rolls.

7. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the oven for 1.5 to 2 hours until the rolls are cooked through.

8. Once done, remove from the oven, and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

How to Serve Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Serve these rolls warm, right from the oven. They go great with a slice of bread or a salad on the side. You can also serve them with a dollop of sour cream on top for extra creaminess!

How to Store Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Use very soft cabbage leaves to avoid tearing. If they tear, don’t worry; just patch them up with another piece!
• Make sure the filling is well mixed for flavor in every bite.
• You can make the filling ahead of time and assemble the rolls for an easy weeknight dinner.

Variation If you want a vegetarian option, you can replace the meat with a mix of beans or lentils and add more vegetables to the filling for a tasty twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes! Feel free to mix different types of ground meat or even try turkey for a lighter option.

2. Can I use pre-made cabbage leaves? Yes, you can find jarred or frozen cabbage leaves in stores that can save time.

3. What can I serve with these rolls? They go well with mashed potatoes, bread, or even just a fresh green salad.