Mediterranean-Style Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Step 1

Blanch the cabbage. In a large pot or Dutch oven, boil plenty of water. Add cabbage and cook until bright green and tender, 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer cooked cabbage to a colander to drain, and return the water to the boil.

Step 2

Cook the rice. Once boiling, season water with a big pinch of salt. Add the uncooked rice and give it a stir. Boil until the rice is tender but not mushy, about 30 minutes. Drain the rice through a fine sieve and set aside.

Step 3

Brown the onions, garlic, and beef. Wipe the empty pot and return it to medium heat. Add extra virgin olive oil and heat until shimmering but not smoking. Add onions and cook, stirring regularly, for 3 to 4 minutes until lightly browned. Add garlic and ground meat. Break the meat apart using a wooden spoon. Raise heat to medium-high. Cook until meat is fully browned, stirring occasionally. Carefully drain any fat, and return to heat. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4

Add the cabbage, brown rice, chopped herbs, and spices. Season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 5

Boil, then simmer. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then lower heat. Cover and simmer until rice has absorbed some of the cooking liquid, 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 6

Finish and serve. Ladle into serving bowls and serve, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil.