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:
- 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.
- Remove the Tough Stems:
- Trim the thick part of the cabbage leaves to make them easier to roll.
Make the Filling:
- 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.
- 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:
- 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.
- Secure with Toothpicks:
- Use toothpicks to secure the cabbage rolls if needed.
- 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.
- Cook the Cabbage Rolls:
- Place the cabbage rolls in a baking dish. Pour the tomato sauce over the rolls.
- 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.
- Serve:
- Remove toothpicks before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.