For those who appreciate the rich flavors of the Mediterranean and love a comforting, home-cooked meal, this recipe for Greek Style Stuffed Cabbage Leaves is a must-try. Packed with a savory mixture of ground meat, aromatic herbs, and rice, all enveloped in tender cabbage leaves and baked to perfection in a zesty tomato sauce, this dish captures the essence of traditional Greek cuisine. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or looking to impress guests with a taste of Greece, these stuffed cabbage leaves are sure to be a hit.
**Greek Style Stuffed Cabbage Leaves**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 lb ground lamb or beef
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried mint
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the cabbage leaves by carefully removing them from the head of cabbage. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the cabbage leaves for about 3-5 minutes, or until they are pliable. Remove the leaves from the pot and set them aside to cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried mint, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
4. Take a cabbage leaf and place a small amount of the meat mixture in the center. Fold in the sides of the leaf and roll it up tightly to form a neat package. Repeat this process with the remaining leaves and filling.
5. In a baking dish, pour half of the crushed tomatoes and spread them evenly on the bottom. Place the stuffed cabbage leaves on top of the sauce, seam side down, in a single layer.
6. Drizzle the olive oil over the stuffed cabbage leaves, then pour the remaining crushed tomatoes on top. Sprinkle with a bit of salt and pepper.
7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the cabbage leaves are tender and the meat is cooked through.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the tops of the cabbage rolls to slightly brown.
9. Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and drizzle the lemon juice over the stuffed cabbage leaves. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Serve the Greek Style Stuffed Cabbage Leaves hot, with a side of Greek yogurt or a simple green salad for a wholesome and satisfying meal that is sure to transport you to the sunny shores of Greece. Enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean with this comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion.
