Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls embody a cherished culinary tradition, brimming with rich flavors and heartfelt heritage. Soft cabbage leaves encase a savory blend of seasoned ground beef, ground pork, and rice, carefully rolled and baked in a vibrant tomato sauce. This beloved dish shines as a centerpiece for memorable family gatherings, offering a true taste of Polish culinary artistry.
Ingredients
- Large head of cabbage: 1
- Ground beef: 1 pound
- Ground pork: ½ pound
- Cooked rice: 1 cup
- Large onion, finely chopped: 1
- Garlic, minced: 2 cloves
- Egg: 1
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Tomato sauce, divided: 2 cups
- Beef broth: 1 cup
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
- Fresh dill, chopped: 1 tablespoon (optional)
How to Make Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
- Prepare the Cabbage: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Gently place the whole cabbage into the pot and let it cook for about 10 minutes, until the outer leaves soften and become pliable. Remove the cabbage from the water and allow it to cool. Carefully peel away the leaves, keeping them intact for rolling.
- Create the Filling: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, cooked rice, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly blended.
- Roll the Cabbage Leaves: Lay a single cabbage leaf flat and spoon approximately ¼ cup of the meat mixture into its center. Fold the sides of the leaf inward over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom. Continue this process with the remaining leaves and filling until all are prepared.
- Prepare the Sauce and Bake: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce across the bottom of a large baking dish. Arrange the cabbage rolls in the dish, seam-side down, ensuring they fit snugly. In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining tomato sauce, beef broth, sugar, and lemon juice. Pour this sauce evenly over the cabbage rolls. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the cabbage is tender and the meat is fully cooked.
- Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle the finished rolls with freshly chopped dill before serving to enhance the flavor.
