Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Golubtsi, Sarmale, or Töltött Káposzta)
Stuffed cabbage is a hearty, comforting dish enjoyed in many cultures, from Eastern Europe to the Balkans. This recipe features tender cabbage leaves filled with a flavorful meat and rice mixture, simmered in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Rolls
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 500g (1 lb) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup uncooked rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Tomato Sauce
- 1 can (800g/28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper