Description
Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small head of cabbage, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup cooked white rice
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic; sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain any excess grease.
Stir in chopped cabbage and cook for 5-7 minutes until it starts to soften.
Pour in diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Add the cooked rice and mix everything well. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 320 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof result. First, ensure all your ingredients are prepped: dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. In your large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no pink remains. Carefully drain the excess fat. Next, add the chopped cabbage. Stir frequently for 5-7 minutes until it wilts slightly. This step is crucial for concentrating flavor.
Now, incorporate the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and all seasonings. Stir thoroughly to combine. Finally, fold in the pre-cooked rice. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer gently for 20-25 minutes. This allows the cabbage to become perfectly tender and the flavors to meld. Check for seasoning before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast for soaking up the sauce. For a lighter touch, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a delightful creamy contrast.
How-to Summary
In summary, Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls is a one-pan deconstructed version of the classic. Sauté onion and garlic, brown the ground beef, then wilt the cabbage. Add tomatoes, sauce, and seasonings, then stir in cooked rice. Simmer covered until the cabbage is tender. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely. It reheats wonderfully and often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I use a different grain instead of rice? Yes. Quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even lentils are excellent substitutes. Adjust cooking liquid and time as needed for your chosen grain.
How can I make this vegetarian? Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground alternative or a cup of cooked brown lentils for added protein and texture.
My mixture is too watery. How do I fix it? Simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate. The cabbage will also release water as it cooks, so ensure you’ve cooked it long enough.
Can I freeze Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls? Yes, it freezes very well. Cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking the cabbage; cook in batches if your skillet is too small to ensure it wilts properly instead of steaming. Do not skip draining the excess fat from the cooked beef, as it can make the final dish greasy. Ensure your rice is already cooked before adding it; uncooked rice will absorb all the sauce and likely burn. Finally, do not under-season. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs after simmering.
Conclusion
Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls deliver all the comforting, savory flavor of the traditional dish with a fraction of the work. This versatile, one-pot wonder is perfect for busy weeknights, easily adaptable to dietary preferences, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. It’s proof that the best comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.