Savory Cabbage Rolls with Tangy Tomato and Mint
Experience a delightful twist on a classic with these Savory Cabbage Rolls. Inspired by a cherished family recipe from the WWII era, this dish showcases tender cabbage leaves lovingly wrapped around a flavorful filling of ground beef and fragrant herbs. The addition of uncooked rice adds a satisfying texture, while the tang of lemon juice and the freshness of dried mint elevate the flavor profile. Instead of conventional tomato sauce, we use a rich tomato juice that imparts a subtle tanginess and moisture, making each bite a burst of savory goodness. Perfect for a hearty family dinner or a potluck gathering, these cabbage rolls are sure to please both young and old alike.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ground Beef
10 ounces (raw)
Rice
2 tablespoons (uncooked)
Lemon Juice
1 teaspoon (freshly squeezed)
Dried Mint
1 teaspoon (crushed)
Tomato Juice
1 cup (plain)
Salt
1 teaspoon (to taste)
Pepper
1/2 teaspoon (freshly cracked)
Allspice
1/4 teaspoon (ground)
Garlic
1 clove (minced)
Cabbage Leaves
14-16 leaves (blanched)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2
Begin by carefully removing the hard core from the cabbage head. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the cabbage, cooking for 5-7 minutes until the leaves are wilted and pliable. Remove and let cool.
3
While the cabbage is cooling, line a casserole dish with two large cabbage leaves to prevent sticking.
4
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, uncooked rice, lemon juice, dried mint, 1/2 cup of tomato juice, salt, pepper, allspice, and minced garlic. Mix until well combined.
5
Take a cabbage leaf and place approximately 1 heaping tablespoon of the beef mixture at the base of the leaf. Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly to seal. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
6
Place the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in the lined casserole dish.
7
Pour the remaining tomato juice over the rolls, and add 1/2 cup of water to the dish to create steam during cooking. This will help keep the rolls moist.
8
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the beef is cooked through and the flavors are melded.
9
Once done, let the rolls sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your savory stuffed cabbage rolls!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Cabbage Rolls with Tangy Tomato and Mint?
They are a delightful twist on a classic dish featuring tender cabbage leaves wrapped around ground beef, rice, and fragrant herbs, inspired by a WWII-era family recipe.
What makes the flavor profile of these cabbage rolls unique?
The unique flavor comes from the addition of lemon juice and dried mint, combined with a rich tomato juice instead of traditional sauce.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 325 degrees Fahrenheit or 165 degrees Celsius.
How long do I need to boil the cabbage?
The cabbage head should be boiled for 5 to 7 minutes until the leaves are wilted and pliable.
Do I need to cook the rice before mixing it with the beef?
No, the recipe specifically calls for 2 tablespoons of uncooked rice.
What type of meat is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 10 ounces of raw ground beef.
How do I prevent the cabbage rolls from sticking to the casserole dish?
You should line the casserole dish with two large cabbage leaves before adding the rolls.
What spices are used to season the beef filling?
The filling is seasoned with salt, pepper, ground allspice, and minced garlic.
How much tomato juice is required in total?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of plain tomato juice.
How is the tomato juice divided in the recipe?
Use 1/2 cup of tomato juice in the beef mixture and pour the remaining 1/2 cup over the rolls before baking.
How many cabbage leaves are typically needed?
You will need approximately 14 to 16 blanched cabbage leaves.
How do I assemble each cabbage roll?
Place a heaping tablespoon of filling at the base of a leaf, fold the sides over, and roll tightly.
Which way should the cabbage rolls face in the dish?
The rolls should be placed seam-side down in the casserole dish.
Why is water added to the baking dish?
Adding 1/2 cup of water creates steam during the cooking process to keep the rolls moist.
Should the dish be covered while baking?
Yes, the dish should be covered with aluminum foil.
How long is the total baking time?
The cabbage rolls should bake for 45 to 60 minutes.
What should I do after taking the rolls out of the oven?
Let the rolls sit for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.
Is this recipe suitable for potlucks?
Yes, these cabbage rolls are ideal for family dinners or potluck gatherings.
What type of mint is used in this dish?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of crushed dried mint.
What is the purpose of removing the cabbage core?
Removing the hard core makes it easier to peel the leaves and allows them to soften properly when boiled.
What category does this recipe fall under?
This recipe is categorized as a Meat dish.
Does this recipe use tomato sauce?
No, it uses tomato juice to provide a subtle tanginess and moisture without the thickness of a sauce.
How much garlic is needed?
You will need 1 clove of minced garlic.
How much lemon juice is included?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Is the ground beef cooked before rolling?
No, the ground beef is mixed raw with the other ingredients and cooks while inside the cabbage leaves.
What kind of texture does the rice provide?
The uncooked rice adds a satisfying, slightly firm texture to the interior filling.
Are there any specific tags for this recipe?
Tags include comfort food, family recipe, ground beef, healthy dinner, and stuffed cabbage.
Can I use a different type of juice?
The recipe specifies plain tomato juice for the most authentic flavor profile.
How much allspice is used?
The recipe requires 1/4 teaspoon of ground allspice.