POLISH CABBAGE ROLLS

Ingredients

To make these delectable Polish Cabbage Rolls, you’ll need:

• 1 large head of cabbage
• 1 pound ground pork
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head in the boiling water. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the outer leaves are tender and can be easily peeled off. Remove the cabbage from the water and let it cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, gently peel off 12 to 14 large leaves, being careful not to tear them.
2. Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Assemble the Rolls: Place a cabbage leaf on a clean work surface. Spoon a portion of the filling onto the center of the leaf and gently roll it up, tucking in the sides as you go. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, and brown sugar.
5. Cook the Rolls: Pour half of the tomato sauce mixture into the bottom of a large baking dish. Arrange the cabbage rolls in the dish, seam side down. Pour the remaining sauce over the top of the rolls.
6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the cabbage rolls are cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.
7. Serve: Sprinkle the cooked cabbage rolls with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy hot, with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To prepare Polish Cabbage Rolls, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:

• Large pot
• Mixing bowls
• Baking dish
• Aluminum foil

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover cabbage rolls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through.