Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Classic Comfort Dish)

Tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savoury meat and rice filling, then slowly baked in a rich tomato sauce—this traditional comfort food is hearty, flavourful, and perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls

1 large green cabbage
500 g lean minced beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
1 cup cooked white rice
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried parsley
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Tomato Sauce

2 cups tomato passata or crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato purée
1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ cup beef or vegetable stock

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage

Bring a large pot of water to the boil.
Remove the core from the cabbage.
Carefully place the cabbage in the boiling water for 3–5 minutes.
Peel off the softened outer leaves and continue until you have 10–12 large leaves.
Trim the thick stem from each leaf to make rolling easier.

2. Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine:

Minced beef
Cooked rice
Onion
Garlic
Egg
Paprika
Parsley
Salt and pepper

Mix until just combined.

3. Roll the Cabbage

Place about 2–3 tablespoons of filling near the base of each cabbage leaf.
Fold in the sides.
Roll tightly to enclose the filling.

4. Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, stir together:

Passata or crushed tomatoes
Tomato purée
Brown sugar (if using)
Worcestershire sauce
Oregano
Stock

5. Bake

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Spread a little sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down.
Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls.
Cover with foil and bake for 60–75 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and the cabbage is tender.