Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a hearty, flavorful dish traditionally made by wrapping a savory filling inside cabbage leaves, then simmering them in a rich tomato sauce. These rolls are a beloved comfort food in Italy, where variations exist across regions, often depending on local ingredients. The filling typically consists of ground meat, rice, Parmesan cheese, herbs, and spices, creating a delicious balance of savory and aromatic flavors. The rolls are slow-cooked in a tangy tomato sauce, which infuses them with deep flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 large cabbage
- 1 lb ground beef (or pork/beef mix)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 egg
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For sauce: 2 cups tomato sauce, 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes, 1 tbsp olive oil, dried basil, sugar (optional)
Calories (approx. per serving):
A serving of 2-3 cabbage rolls typically contains around 300-400 calories.
Cooking:
- Blanch cabbage leaves, then prepare the filling by mixing meat, rice, egg, cheese, herbs, and spices.
- Roll the filling in cabbage leaves and place in a baking dish.
- Simmer in a tomato sauce for about 1.5 hours at 350°F (175°C).
History:
Cabbage rolls have roots in Eastern European cuisine, but Italy has embraced them in unique ways. Known in Italy as « involtini di cavolo, » they reflect the country’s love for hearty, satisfying dishes. Regional variations feature different meats, rice, or even vegetables in the filling. The combination of savory meat, rice, and tomatoes makes these rolls a perfect example of Italian comfort food, showing how a simple, humble dish can become a treasured family recipe.
