Description
These Creole Cabbage Rolls are a flavorful twist on a classic comfort food, featuring seasoned ground beef and rice wrapped in tender cabbage leaves, simmered in a rich Creole tomato sauce. Perfect for a hearty family meal, this recipe blends bold spices with tender textures for a satisfying dish.
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 the cabbage leaves: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully separate the cabbage leaves and cut out the tough stems at the base. Blanch the leaves in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they become softened but still pliable. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Cook the beef filling: Add the ground beef to the skillet with onions and garlic. Cook until browned, breaking the meat apart with a spoon. Stir in Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and pepper. Mix in the cooked rice until everything is well combined. Remove from the heat.
- Assemble the rolls: Place a few spoonfuls of the beef and rice mixture in the center of each cabbage leaf. Roll the leaves tightly, folding in the sides to secure the filling inside, forming neat rolls.
- Prepare the sauce: In a large pot, combine diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Simmer the cabbage rolls: Carefully place the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down into the simmering sauce. Cover the pot and cook for 30-40 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Serve and garnish: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. These rolls can be enjoyed on their own or with a side of crusty bread or additional rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- Blanching the cabbage leaves softens them, making them easier to roll without tearing.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to control the heat level according to personal preference.
- Make sure to seal the rolls well to prevent the filling from spilling during simmering.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or textured vegetable protein.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
