Cabbage rolls are a traditional Eastern European dish that are popular all over the globe. This hearty and flavorful meal is made by stuffing boiled cabbage leaves with a blend of meat and rice, and then baking them until golden and tender. Among all cabbage roll recipes, the Martha Stewart cabbage rolls stand out for their delicious combination of ingredients and elegant presentation.
In this article, we will reveal the secrets of making Martha Stewart cabbage rolls from scratch. Whether you are an experienced home cook or a beginner looking to learn a new recipe, this guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions to create an authentic and satisfying dish. So, grab your apron and get ready to roll!
Gathering the Ingredients
Making Martha Stewart cabbage rolls requires several ingredients that must be gathered before beginning the cooking process. To make approximately 10-12 cabbage rolls, you will require one large, compact head of green cabbage, two cups of cooked rice, one pound of ground beef, one cup of chopped onion, two cloves of garlic, one tablespoon of fresh thyme, one tablespoon of fresh marjoram, one teaspoon of smoked paprika, one egg, one cup of tomato sauce, and one cup of beef stock.
To begin the cooking process, you must boil the cabbage for about 12 minutes in salted water, then remove it from the water and let it cool before removing each of the individual leaves. Once the leaves are removed, you can make the filling by sautéing the onions and garlic before adding the ground beef. Add in the cooked rice, thyme, marjoram, smoked paprika, and egg, and mix everything together well. The filling can then be spooned onto the cabbage leaves, which are then rolled up and assembled in a baking dish.
Preparing the Cabbage Leaves
Preparing the cabbage leaves is a vital step when it comes to making delicious Martha Stewart cabbage rolls. The cabbage leaves should be blanched before assembling the rolls, making them pliable and easy to roll. First, remove the core from the head of cabbage and discard. Place the head of cabbage into a large pot of boiling water, and allow it to cook for about 2-3 minutes. Carefully remove the cabbage from the pot with tongs or a slotted spoon. Plunge the cabbage into ice water to stop the cooking process, and then gently pat dry with paper towels.
Once the cabbage leaves have been blanched and dried, it’s time to prepare them for the filling. Use a sharp knife to remove the thick stem from the bottom of each leaf, making sure to leave enough of the leaf intact to roll easily. If any leaves are torn or damaged during the preparation process, set them aside as you may be able to use them to patch other leaves later. With the cabbage leaves prepped and ready, the stage is set for the delicious filling.
Mixing the Filling
To make Martha Stewart’s cabbage rolls, you need to prepare the filling which includes ground pork, cooked rice, and a variety of herbs and spices. To start mixing the filling, take a large bowl and combine one pound of ground pork with one cup of cooked rice. Mix everything together with a fork or your hands. Try to break down any lumps of ground pork to ensure the filling is smooth and evenly mixed.
Once you have mixed the ground pork and rice, it’s time to add in the seasoning. To get the authentic Martha Stewart taste, you’ll want to include ingredients such as garlic, onion, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Remember, you can always adjust the seasoning to your liking, so if you want more spice, add in some chili flakes. Mix all the herbs and spices into the filling, and ensure that they are evenly distributed. Once mixed, the filling is now ready to fill the cabbage leaves.
Rolling the Cabbage Rolls
Rolling the Cabbage Rolls
Now that we have our cabbage leaves blanched and ready for use, the next step is to roll them up. To do this, lay a cabbage leaf flat on a chopping board, making sure that the veiny part of the leaf faces upwards. Then, scoop a tablespoonful of the meat mixture and place it at the bottom center of the leaf.
Fold the outside part of the cabbage leaf over the filling, then roll it tightly until the filling is completely covered. Place the cabbage roll, seam-side down, in a large pot. Continue wrapping the rest of the cabbage rolls in the same way, arranging them snugly next to each other in the pot until everything has been used up. Once you have rolled all the cabbage rolls, cover them with a layer of bacon strips and pour the remaining sauce over the top.
Cooking and Serving
Once your cabbage rolls are prepared, it’s time to get cooking! Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the rolls into a baking dish, seam side down, and cover with foil. Bake in the oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes of baking to get a nice golden brown color on top.
When your cabbage rolls are fully cooked, it’s time to serve them up and enjoy! To plate them, use a large spoon or spatula to carefully transfer each roll onto a plate. Spoon some of the tomato sauce over the top of each roll, and garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired. These cabbage rolls make a delicious and filling meal on their own, or you can serve them with a side of mashed potatoes or a salad if you prefer. Invite your friends and family to enjoy the meal with you!
Tips and Tricks for Success
When making Martha Stewart cabbage rolls, there are a few tips and tricks that can help ensure success. Firstly, choose a large, firm cabbage that is free from blemishes and has unbroken outer leaves. It is important to remove the core of the cabbage carefully, as this will allow the leaves to separate easily without tearing.
Another important tip is to blanch the cabbage leaves before filling them. This helps to soften the leaves and make them more pliable for rolling. Be sure to avoid overfilling the cabbage leaves when rolling, as this can cause them to burst open during cooking. Finally, it is recommended to bake the cabbage rolls in a covered casserole dish with a small amount of liquid, such as tomato sauce or chicken broth, to keep them moist and flavorful. These tips and tricks can help ensure that your Martha Stewart cabbage rolls turn out perfectly every time.
Variations and Substitutions
When it comes to Martha Stewart cabbage rolls, there are plenty of variations and substitutions that you can make to switch up the flavors and ingredients. For instance, instead of using ground beef, you can opt for ground turkey or even vegetarian crumbles to make your cabbage rolls. You can also experiment with different types of rice, such as brown rice or wild rice, to add a more earthy flavor.
If you’re feeling bold, you can add various seasonings and herbs to the filling, such as basil or oregano, to give it a unique taste. Additionally, you can play with the sauce by using tomato sauce, cream sauce, or even a sweet and sour sauce to give your cabbage rolls a different flavor and texture. Ultimately, the key to making the perfect cabbage rolls lies in experimenting with different ingredients and finding the perfect combination that suits your taste buds.
The Conclusion
Making Martha Stewart’s cabbage rolls is a fun and easy way to explore new flavors in your cooking. With a mixture of ground beef, rice, herbs, and spices encased in tender cabbage leaves, this classic dish is both hearty and satisfying.
To prepare this dish, make sure to follow the step-by-step instructions carefully to ensure optimal results. Take your time and be patient while rolling the cabbage leaves as this will make a big difference in the finished product. And don’t forget to enjoy the final product with your loved ones, as this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends.