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Quick & Easy Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls for a Flavorful Dinner

Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
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There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about coming home to the savory scent of Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls bubbling away on the stovetop. I can still remember the joy of watching my grandmother expertly whip up this comforting dish, transforming humble ingredients into a flavorful feast in less than half an hour. It's this speed and ease that makes Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet simple.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 sweet onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon coarse salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 cup uncooked white rice
  • 1/2 cup golden raisins
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
  • 6 cups small head cabbage, core removed, chopped
  • optional sour cream or Greek yogurt for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring it shimmers before you start to cook.
  2. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef and 1 diced sweet onion to the skillet; sauté until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease for a lighter dish.
  3. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for about 20 seconds until fragrant—this is when the magic begins! Then, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of coarse salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, and 1 teaspoon of paprika for depth of flavor.
  4. Combine 1 cup of uncooked white rice, 1/2 cup of golden raisins (if using), 1 can (15 oz) of tomato sauce, and 1 cup of low-sodium beef broth into the skillet. Gently fold in 6 cups of chopped cabbage until well mixed.
  5. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 22-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is cooked and the cabbage is tender, soaking in all the delicious flavors.
  6. Serve hot in bowls topped with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.

Notes

  • Grease Control: Drain grease after browning the beef to avoid a greasy dish. This small step keeps the flavors intact.
  • Cabbage Quantity: Adjust the amount of cabbage depending on your skillet size; the 6 cups suggested is a guideline for a standard pan.
  • Flavor Boosters: Incorporate spices like cumin or red pepper flakes for added depth. Experimenting with these can enhance your unstuffed cabbage rolls remarkably.
  • Rice Cooking: Use medium or long-grain rice, as they hold their texture better when combined with the savory tomato sauce and beef.
  • Customize Easily: Don’t hesitate to add ingredients like shredded carrots or bell pepper for a nutritional boost and extra flavor in your dish.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipecrown.com/unstuffed-cabbage-rolls/