Ingredients:

For the Cabbage Rolls:

  • 1 large head of cabbage
  • 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
  • 1/2 cup cauliflower rice (finely grated cauliflower)
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tomato Sauce:

  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Cabbage Leaves:

  1. Blanch the Cabbage:
    • Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully peel off the outer leaves of the cabbage, trying to keep them whole. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until pliable. Remove and set aside to cool.
  2. Remove the Tough Stems:
    • Trim the thick part of the cabbage leaves to make them easier to roll.

Make the Filling:

  1. Prepare the Cauliflower Rice:
    • Grate or process cauliflower until it resembles rice. Cook in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to remove excess moisture.
  2. Make the Filling:
    • In a bowl, combine ground beef, cauliflower rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Assemble and Cook:

  1. Roll the Cabbage Leaves:
    • Place a portion of the filling in the center of a cabbage leaf. Fold the sides in and then roll it up.
  2. Secure with Toothpicks:
    • Use toothpicks to secure the cabbage rolls if needed.
  3. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
    • In a separate saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Cook the Cabbage Rolls:
    • Place the cabbage rolls in a baking dish. Pour the tomato sauce over the rolls.
  5. Bake:
    • Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the meat is cooked through.
  6. Serve:
    • Remove toothpicks before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.