Pennsylvania Dutch Cabbage Rolls

If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than Pennsylvania Dutch Cabbage Rolls. This traditional recipe combines tender cabbage leaves with a savory filling and a rich tomato sauce for a dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions. Let’s dive into how to make this classic dish that’s sure to become a new favorite at your table!

**Pennsylvania Dutch Cabbage Rolls**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

**Instructions:**
1. Start by boiling a large pot of water. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head in the boiling water. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until the outer leaves are softened. Remove the cabbage from the water and carefully peel off the softened leaves. Set them aside to cool.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Mix everything together until well combined.

3. Take a cabbage leaf and place a scoop of the meat mixture in the center. Roll up the leaf, tucking in the sides as you go, to create a tight cabbage roll. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.

4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the cabbage rolls in a baking dish, seam side down, so they stay intact during cooking.

5. In a separate bowl, mix together the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this sauce over the cabbage rolls in the baking dish, ensuring they are well coated.

6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for about 45-50 minutes until the cabbage rolls are cooked through and the sauce is bubbling.

7. Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Spoon some of the flavorful sauce over each cabbage roll and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Pennsylvania Dutch Cabbage Rolls are best enjoyed hot, straight from the oven. The combination of tender cabbage, flavorful meat filling, and rich tomato sauce is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul. Whether you’re serving these for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this classic recipe is bound to impress. So go ahead, give it a try and bring a taste of tradition to your table tonight!