Country Cabbage Rolls Straight From A Mennonite Kitchen

Step 5: Cook the Cabbage Rolls

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the bottom of a large baking dish or Dutch oven.
3. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a single layer, tightly packed.
4. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are fully covered.
5. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the rolls are tender and the flavors are fully melded.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
2. Transfer the cabbage rolls to plates, spooning extra sauce over the top.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and a dollop of sour cream for added richness.

Tips for Perfect Cabbage Rolls

• Choose the Right Cabbage: Savoy cabbage is softer and easier to roll, while green cabbage provides a firmer texture. Both work wonderfully.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the rolls and refrigerate them overnight. This allows the flavors to deepen before baking.
• Freezing Option: Cabbage rolls freeze exceptionally well. Freeze them in a single layer before baking, then transfer to an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, bake them directly from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking process.

Why These Cabbage Rolls Are Unforgettable

1. Classic Comfort: The combination of tender cabbage, savory filling, and rich tomato sauce makes every bite heartwarming.
2. Customizable: Easily adjust the filling ingredients or seasonings to suit your family’s taste.
3. Rooted in Tradition: With ties to Mennonite and Eastern European cooking, these rolls are steeped in history and flavor.