Slow cooker cabbage rolls are a comforting and delicious dish that’s easy to prepare. Here’s a simple recipe:
Slow cooker cabbage rolls are a timeless comfort food classic that takes the traditional recipe to a whole new level of convenience and flavor.
These hearty and satisfying rolls are a labor of love, with tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling of seasoned ground meat and rice, all simmered to perfection in a rich tomato sauce.
The process begins with preparing the cabbage leaves, which are carefully blanched in boiling water until they’re soft and pliable. This step helps to remove some of the bitterness from the cabbage and makes it easier to roll them around the filling without tearing.
Next, it’s time to prepare the filling. A classic cabbage roll filling typically consists of ground beef or pork, cooked rice, onions, garlic, and a variety of seasonings such as salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs like parsley or dill.
The filling is mixed together until well combined, creating a flavorful mixture that will be nestled inside the cabbage leaves.
Once the cabbage leaves and filling are ready, it’s time to assemble the cabbage rolls. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each cabbage leaf, then fold the sides over the filling and roll it up tightly, similar to a burrito.
Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the slow cooker, stacking them snugly against each other to prevent them from unraveling during cooking.
Ingredients:
- – 1 large head of cabbage
- – 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- – 1 cup cooked rice
- – 1 small onion, finely chopped
- – 2 cloves garlic, minced
- – 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- – 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- – 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- – 1 teaspoon paprika
- – 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- – Salt and pepper to taste
- – 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Start by preparing the cabbage. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Carefully add the whole head of cabbage to the pot and let it boil for about 5 minutes, or until the outer leaves are softened and easy to remove. Remove the cabbage from the pot and carefully peel off the softened leaves. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
3. Take a cabbage leaf and place a spoonful of the meat and rice mixture in the center. Roll up the cabbage leaf, tucking in the sides as you go, to form a tight roll. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
4. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the slow cooker. Arrange them in a single layer, stacking if necessary.
5. Pour the beef or vegetable broth over the cabbage rolls in the slow cooker.
6. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the cabbage rolls are cooked through and tender.
7. Once the cabbage rolls are cooked, remove them from the slow cooker and serve hot. You can spoon some of the cooking liquid over the cabbage rolls for extra flavor, if desired.
8. Enjoy your delicious slow cooker cabbage rolls with your favorite side dishes!
These slow cooker cabbage rolls are a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, they make great leftovers!