Description: Tender cabbage leaves filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, pork, or lamb, combined with rice or mashed potatoes, then simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This comforting Irish-inspired dish is perfect for a hearty meal.

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time: 1 hour 30 Minutes

Serving size: 6 Servings

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cabbage
• 1 pound ground meat (choose from beef, pork, lamb, or a combination)
• Choose one filling option:
  • ½ cup cooked rice (for a classic version)
  • ½ cup mashed potatoes (for a softer, traditional Irish twist)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cabbage:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Remove any damaged outer leaves from the cabbage, then carefully separate the remaining leaves.
   • Blanch the cabbage leaves in the boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until slightly softened. Drain and set aside.
     
     
2. Make the Filling:
   • In a large bowl, combine your choice of ground beef, pork, or lamb with the chopped onion, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
   • Choose your preferred filling:
     • Mix in cooked rice for a classic texture.
     • Mix in mashed potatoes for a softer, Irish-style filling.
       
       
3. Assemble the Cabbage Rolls:
   • Take a cabbage leaf and place a portion of the meat mixture in the center.
   • Roll up the leaf, tucking in the sides as you go, to create a tight roll.
   • Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
     
     
4. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
   • In a large pot, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef or vegetable broth, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine.
     
     
5. Cook the Cabbage Rolls:
   • Place the cabbage rolls into the pot with the tomato sauce, seam side down.
   • Cover the pot and simmer over low heat for 1 hour, or until the cabbage rolls are tender and the flavors have melded together.
     
     
6. Serve:
   • Serve hot, spooning some of the tomato sauce over the top.

Enjoy with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad!