Step into my kitchen, where cherished family recipes come to life, and the aroma of home-cooked meals fills the air. As a devoted housewife, I take immense pleasure in creating dishes that bring comfort and warmth to my loved ones. Today, I invite you to join me on a culinary journey as we dive into the heartwarming world of slow cooker cabbage rolls. Let’s unravel the story behind this classic dish and savor its rich flavors together.
A Nostalgic Heritage
Cabbage rolls have a special place in my heart, evoking memories of family gatherings and treasured moments around the dinner table. Passed down through generations, this recipe is a testament to the enduring traditions that connect us to our roots. With each roll meticulously prepared, we honor the legacy of those who came before us while infusing our own love and passion into the dish.
The Art of Preparation
Like any culinary masterpiece, crafting cabbage rolls requires attention to detail and a touch of finesse. We begin by carefully selecting a large head of cabbage, its vibrant green leaves promising a tender embrace for the filling within. Boiling the cabbage just long enough to loosen the leaves, we ensure they are pliable yet resilient enough to hold their shape during the slow cooking process.
An Irresistible Filling
At the heart of every cabbage roll lies a delectable filling that blends harmoniously with the cabbage’s subtle flavors. In a large bowl, we combine a medley of ingredients, including quick-cooking rice, chopped green pepper, crushed saltines, and a rich tomato sauce. The addition of onion soup mix adds depth and complexity, infusing the mixture with savory notes that tantalize the taste buds.
Embracing the Slow Cooker Magic
With the filling lovingly prepared, we embark on the next step of our journey—layering the cabbage rolls in the warm embrace of the slow cooker. Placing each roll carefully within its comforting confines, we pour a generous amount of V8 juice over them, allowing the flavors to meld and develop over hours of gentle cooking. The slow cooker becomes our culinary companion, transforming simple ingredients into a symphony of taste and tenderness.
Patience Rewarded
As the aroma of simmering cabbage and savory filling fills the kitchen, we practice the virtue of patience, eagerly awaiting the moment when the rolls will be tender, juicy, and ready to be savored. After 6-7 hours of slow cooking on low heat, the filling reaches a perfect internal temperature of 160°F, ensuring its succulent texture and complete flavor infusion.
The Finishing Touch
Just before serving, we sprinkle a pinch of salt over the rolls, heightening the flavors and bringing the dish to life. For those seeking an extra touch of indulgence, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a delightful nuance that elevates the overall experience. With the table set and loved ones gathered, we embark on the final act of our culinary journey—enjoying each bite of these comforting cabbage rolls together.
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Slow Cooker Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Experience the heartwarming nostalgia of slow cooker cabbage rolls, a cherished family recipe that combines tender cabbage leaves with a flavorful filling, creating a meal that speaks of love and tradition.
| Prep | Cook | Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 20 min. | 6 hours | 6 |
Ingredients:
- 1 large head cabbage
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 3/4 cup quick-cooking rice
- 1/2 cup chopped green pepper
- 1/2 cup crushed saltines (about 15 crackers)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 ounce onion soup mix
- 1-1/2 pounds lean ground beef (90% lean)
- 1 can (46 ounces) V8 juice
- Salt to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Directions:
- Cook cabbage in boiling water just until leaves fall off head. Set aside 12 large leaves for rolls; drain well. (Refrigerate remaining cabbage for another use.) Cut out the thick vein from the bottom of each reserved leaf, making a V-shaped cut; set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the tomato sauce, rice, green pepper, cracker crumbs, egg and soup mix. Crumble beef over mixture and mix well.
- Place about 1/3 cup meat mixture on each cabbage leaf; overlap cut ends of leaf. Fold in sides, beginning from the cut end. Roll up completely to enclose filling. Secure with toothpicks if desired.
- Place cabbage rolls in a 3-qt. slow cooker. Pour V8 juice over rolls. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until filling reaches 160°. Just before serving, sprinkle with salt and cheese if desired.
Need more slow cooker recipes? Try these:
- Slow Cooker Easy Creamy Chicken Curry
- Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara
- Slow Cooker Baked Potato
- Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Slow Cooker Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Click here for my entire collection of Slow Cooker Recipes
With each step, from selecting the ingredients to savoring the final result, we embrace the joy of nourishing our loved ones with a dish that speaks to the traditions of the past.
Is the meat raw when put in cabbage roll ?