Description
These Creole Cabbage Rolls offer a flavorful twist on the classic comfort dish, featuring seasoned ground beef and rice wrapped in tender cabbage leaves, simmered in a rich tomato-based Creole sauce. Perfect for a hearty family meal with a hint of smoky spice and a touch of Southern charm.
Ingredients
Scale
Cabbage Rolls
- 1 medium head of cabbage
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Creole seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Cabbage Leaves: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully separate and remove the leaves from the cabbage head, trimming out the tough stem at the base of each leaf. Blanch the leaves in the boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes until softened enough to roll. Drain and set aside to cool.
- Cook Aromatics: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Brown Beef Mixture: Add ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic, cooking until fully browned and breaking it up with a spoon. Stir in Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix in the cooked rice until evenly combined. Remove from heat.
- Assemble Rolls: Place a few spoonfuls of the beef and rice mixture in the center of each blanched cabbage leaf. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly to encase the filling securely.
- Prepare Sauce: In a large pot, combine diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Cook Cabbage Rolls: Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the simmering sauce. Cover the pot and let the rolls simmer gently for 30 to 40 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have fully melded.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the cooked cabbage rolls before serving. These rolls pair beautifully with crusty bread or additional rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Blanching the cabbage leaves makes them pliable and easier to roll without tearing.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity according to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dish.
- Leftover cabbage rolls can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.
- Serve with sides like cornbread, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
