Sweet and Sour Stuffed Cabbage
Sweet and Sour Stuffed Cabbage is a classic dish that has been enjoyed by many cultures for centuries. This savory and tangy dish features tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a flavorful mixture of ground meat, rice, and aromatic spices, all simmered in a sweet and sour tomato-based sauce. The combination of ingredients creates a delicious and comforting meal that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.
Prep Time:
1 hr
Cook Time:
3 hrs 50 mins
Additional Time:
15 mins
Total Time:
5 hrs 5 mins
Servings:
10
Yield:
30 cabbage rolls
Ingredients
Directions
Step 1
Bring the rice and water to a boil in a saucepan over high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed, 20 to 25 minutes.
Step 2
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Boil the heads of cabbage, one at a time, until softened but still firm, about 5 minutes. Remove and let cool for 15 minutes.
Step 3
Combine the ground beef, eggs, cooked rice, 1 1/2 teaspoons of garlic powder, salt and pepper, and 1/2 cup ketchup in a bowl. Mix with your hands until well combined.
Step 4
Prepare the cabbage leaves by shaving a slice off of the large vein in the center of the leaves so they'll be easier to roll. Place a heaping spoonful of the filling in the center of the leaf. Fold in the left and right edges and roll up the leaf from the bottom, forming a tight cylinder. Secure with toothpicks if necessary. Continue filling and rolling the leaves; save the smaller cabbage leaves and set them aside.
Step 5
Chop the reserved cabbage leaves. Place the chopped cabbage in a large pot. Add the sliced onion, crushed tomatoes, raisins, sour salt (citric acid powder), salt and pepper, 1/2 cup ketchup, and the remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder. Stir in 1/2 cup of white sugar and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 6
Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness, if desired, by adding the additional 1/2 cup of sugar. Place the cabbage rolls into the sauce. Pour the remaining 1 cup of ketchup on top of the rolls. Cover the pot, and reduce the heat to a simmer.
Step 7
Cook the rolls for 3 hours, basting the rolls every half hour.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
599
Calories
18g
Fat
83g
Carbs
33g
Protein
Complement
The origins of Sweet and Sour Stuffed Cabbage can be traced back to Eastern European and Middle Eastern cuisines, where cabbage is a staple ingredient. The dish has also been adapted and enjoyed in Jewish, Polish, and Russian households, each adding their own unique twist to the recipe. The sweet and sour flavor profile of the dish comes from the combination of tangy tomatoes, vinegar, and a touch of sweetness from sugar or honey. This creates a delicious contrast of flavors that is both satisfying and memorable. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, Sweet and Sour Stuffed Cabbage is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for all who enjoy its hearty and comforting flavors.
