Use tongs and gently remove leaves; set aside on a paper towel
Score a "V" on the leaves and remove the hard stem
Preheat oven to 350º F
Meat Filling Instructions
In a large bowl, combine filling ingredients
Place ⅓ - ¼ cup of meat filling right above the "V" on the cabbage; roll the "V" up and forward; tuck in the sides; continue rolling and place seam side down in a 9 x 13 baking dish
Repeat; when all leaves are assembled, add 1 cup water to baking dish
Place foil over baking dish and bake at 350º F for 30-45 minutes; internal thermometer should read at least 160ºF
In a medium bowl, add sauce ingredients and combine well
Remove cooked cabbage rolls from oven
Drizzle sauce over cabbage rolls and place back into oven for 15 minutes, uncovered
Remove from oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes
Notes
You may have to use a paring knife to loosen the leaves from the core while the cabbage is in the hot water...be careful!
Some cabbage roll recipes call for rice. If you choose to add rice follow these instructions: