Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Unstuffed cabbage rolls are a simplified version of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls. This dish offers the same comforting flavors but requires less preparation, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

For the main dish:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef, turkey, or pork
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small head of cabbage, chopped (about 6–8 cups)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth (or chicken/vegetable broth for a lighter flavor)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cooked rice (optional, for a heartier dish)

For garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• A dollop of sour cream (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Meat:
   • Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain excess grease if needed.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
   • Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet with the meat. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.
3. Add Cabbage and Seasoning:
   • Stir in the chopped cabbage. Season with paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the cabbage with the spices.
4. Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth:
   • Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer:
   • Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage should become tender and the flavors meld together.
6. Add Cooked Rice (Optional):
   • If using cooked rice, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
7. Taste and Adjust:
   • Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices if needed.
8. Serve:
   • Ladle the unstuffed cabbage rolls into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and a dollop of sour cream, if desired.

Tips for Success

• Use pre-shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix to save time.
• For a low-carb version, skip the rice or replace it with cauliflower rice.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Enjoy this warm, hearty dish that brings all the flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls without the fuss!