Savory Beef and Cabbage Rolls

This recipe, passed down from my friend in Nebraska, elevates comfort food to new heights with its delicious blend of flavors and textures.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 4 cups shredded cabbage
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, for traditional flavor)
• 12 pieces frozen unbaked roll dough
• 1 tablespoon canola oil, for sautéing
• 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (optional, for added richness)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), following the instructions on the roll dough package.
2. In a skillet, heat canola oil over medium-high heat. Sauté onions until translucent.
3. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it browns. Season with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat, if necessary.
4. Mix in shredded cabbage and caraway seeds, cooking until the cabbage softens.
5. Slightly thaw each piece of dough and roll it into a 5-6 inch circle on a floured surface.
6. Spoon about 1/3 cup of the beef mixture onto each dough circle, adding cheese if desired.
7. Fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges to seal, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. Bake according to the instructions on the dough package until golden brown, typically 20-25 minutes.
9. Allow to cool slightly before serving; the filling will be hot.

Variations & Tips:

• Experiment with different cheeses such as Swiss or mozzarella for varied flavor profiles.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute mushrooms and lentils for ground beef.
• Omit the cheese for a more traditional take on this dish.
• Fresh bread dough can be used instead of frozen roll dough for a homemade touch.
• Ensure the edges are tightly sealed to prevent leaks and avoid overfilling.
• Freeze any leftovers and reheat for a quick and satisfying meal later.