Country Cabbage Rolls Straight From A Mennonite Kitchen

Imagine a dish that carries generations of love, warmth, and culinary wisdom in every single bite. These Country Cabbage Rolls are more than just a meal – they're a journey through time, straight from the heart of a Mennonite kitchen.

Packed with perfectly seasoned ground beef and pork, wrapped in tender cabbage leaves, and smothered in a rich tomato sauce, this recipe tells a story of family, tradition, and home-cooked comfort. Whether you're looking to connect with heritage or simply craving a deeply satisfying meal, these cabbage rolls promise an unforgettable dining experience.

Country Cabbage Rolls: A Rustic Culinary Masterpiece

Get ready to transform simple ingredients into a hearty dish that speaks volumes about traditional cooking. Moreover, these cabbage rolls represent more than just a recipe – they're a testament to the resourceful and loving approach to food that defines Mennonite cuisine.

From the first bite, you'll be transported to a warm kitchen filled with the aroma of home-cooked goodness. This classic recipe brings together humble ingredients in a truly magical way.

Serving Suggestions:

Complement your Country Cabbage Rolls with these delightful sides:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Fresh crusty bread
• Simple green salad
• Sour cream
• Pickled vegetables

Pro Tips for Perfect Country Cabbage Rolls:

Cabbage Preparation: Carefully remove cabbage leaves to keep them intact. Blanching helps make them pliable and easier to roll.

Meat Mixture Secrets: Mix the ground beef and pork thoroughly. Don't overmix, as this can make the filling tough.

Sauce Balancing: Adjust the brown sugar and vinegar to achieve the perfect sweet-tangy balance in the sauce.

Rolling Technique: Trim the thick rib of the cabbage leaf for easier rolling. Fold sides in before rolling to keep the filling secure.

Make-Ahead Magic: These rolls taste even better the next day, making them perfect for meal prep.

Country Cabbage Rolls Recipe Details:

• Preparation time: 30 minutes
• Cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 6-8
• Equipment: Large pot, mixing bowls, baking dish or Dutch oven

Ingredients:

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 1 large head green cabbage
• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• ½ pound ground pork
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

For the Sauce:

• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Prepare the cabbage by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully core the cabbage and gently place the whole head into the boiling water. Cook for 5-8 minutes, carefully peeling off softened leaves with tongs as they loosen. Set aside 12 large, whole leaves for rolling.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, cooked rice, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix thoroughly but gently to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Create the sauce by combining crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a saucepan. Simmer on low heat while you prepare the rolls.
4. Lay a cabbage leaf flat on your work surface. Trim the thickest part of the rib if needed. Place about ⅓ cup of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf.
5. Fold the sides of the cabbage leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly, similar to making a burrito. The goal is to create a neat, compact roll that keeps the filling secure.
6. Pour a small amount of tomato sauce into the bottom of a large baking dish or Dutch oven. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a single layer.
7. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the rolls, ensuring they're well covered. This will keep them moist and infuse them with flavor.
8. Cover the dish tightly with foil or a lid. Bake at 350°F for 1 hour and 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the rolls to become tender.

Ready to Savor!

Let the cabbage rolls rest for 10 minutes after baking. This short waiting period allows the filling to set and makes serving easier.

Storage Solutions:

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven
• Can be frozen for up to 1 month (thaw in refrigerator before reheating)
• Best enjoyed within 2 days of preparation

Whether you're honoring a family tradition or discovering a new comfort food, these Country Cabbage Rolls capture the essence of home-cooked, soul-warming cuisine. Each bite tells a story of love, care, and culinary heritage!

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