Grandma "Field'S" Cabbage Rolls Or Stuffed Cabbage
Grandma's Field's Cabbage Rolls are hearty, flavorful stuffed cabbage dishes featuring tender cabbage leaves filled with savory ground beef, rice, and seasoned with herbs. Cozy and satisfying, they suit family dinners and gatherings, blending rich tomato flavors with a hint of smokiness from sausage for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove the core from the cabbage head and carefully peel off the large leaves, blanching them in boiling water until soft enough to roll.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, uncooked rice, chopped onions, chopped garlic, eggs, oregano, and season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Lay a cabbage leaf flat, place a portion of the meat mixture on the center, and roll up, tucking in the sides to form a neat bundle.
- Repeat with remaining leaves and meat mixture.
- Layer the chopped large green pepper, sauerkraut, canned tomatoes, tomato paste, bay leaf, and sliced onions in a large pot to create a flavorful base.
- Place the cabbage rolls seam side down on top of the vegetable layer.
- Add the pork sausage in pieces around the rolls.
- Pour the tomato mixture over the rolls, ensuring they are mostly covered.
- Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for about 1.5 hours, until the rolls are cooked through and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a combination of ground beef and pork sausage for added flavor and richness. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey or chicken can be substituted for the beef. You can also mix in cooked quinoa instead of rice for a healthier twist. Blanch the cabbage leaves in batches to make handling easier and to prevent tearing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cabbage rolls with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor. They pair beautifully with Louisiana Dirty Rice for a hearty meal. A side of crusty bread can help soak up the delicious sauce, making for a comforting dinner option.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F for about 30 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave them in a covered dish, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma "Field'S" Cabbage Rolls Or Stuffed Cabbage contains roughly 642 calories, with 20g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (134% of the Daily Value), and calcium (92% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 558mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cabbage rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cabbage rolls a day in advance. Assemble them and place them in the pot with the sauce, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to cook, simply simmer them on the stove until heated through. This can enhance the flavors as they meld overnight.
What can I use instead of sauerkraut?
If you prefer not to use sauerkraut, you can substitute it with finely chopped green cabbage or coleslaw mix for a milder flavor. Alternatively, adding diced tomatoes or bell peppers can provide a similar texture without the tanginess of sauerkraut.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done?
Cabbage rolls are done when the internal temperature of the meat reaches 160°F. You can also check that the rice is tender and the cabbage is soft. Allowing them to simmer for at least 1.5 hours will ensure they are cooked through and flavorful.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).