Instant Pot Lazy

Effortless Elegance: Mastering Instant Pot Lazy Cabbage Rolls for Quick and Delicious Comfort

Unlock the secret to quick and delightful comfort with Instant Pot Lazy Cabbage Rolls—a time-saving twist on the classic dish that promises all the flavors without the fuss. In this culinary adventure, we’ll dive into the art of crafting these delectable rolls using the convenience of your Instant Pot. From the savory blend of seasoned ground beef and rice to the tender cabbage leaves cocooning the filling, every bite is a journey into the heart of home-cooked perfection. Join me as we explore the ingredients, the step-by-step instructions, and the various ways to make this dish uniquely yours.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup white rice, uncooked
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cabbage Rolls:

  • 1 large head of cabbage
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cabbage:

  • Core the cabbage and place it in the microwave for 10-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until the leaves are soft and pliable.
  • Carefully peel off the leaves and trim the thick center stem.

2. Make the Filling:

  • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
  • Add chopped onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
  • Stir in uncooked rice, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

3. Assemble the Cabbage Rolls:

  • Place a spoonful of the beef and rice mixture in the center of each cabbage leaf.
  • Roll the cabbage leaves, tucking in the sides, to create neat rolls.

4. Prepare the Instant Pot:

  • In the Instant Pot, mix together crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
  • Gently place the cabbage rolls into the sauce.

5. Cook to Perfection:

  • Set the Instant Pot to Manual mode for 15 minutes.
  • Once cooked, perform a quick release.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

  • Spoon some of the flavorful tomato sauce over the cabbage rolls.
  • Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Notes:

  • Choose a lean ground beef to minimize excess fat in the filling.
  • Adjust the seasoning of the filling to suit your taste preferences.
  • Use a pair of kitchen tongs to carefully handle and roll the softened cabbage leaves.

Variations:

Vegetarian Delight:

  • Replace the ground beef with a mixture of lentils, rice, and your favorite vegetables for a vegetarian version.

Italian Influence:

  • Add a layer of mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the cabbage rolls before serving for a cheesy twist.

Keto Version:

For those committed to a keto lifestyle, Instant Pot Lazy Cabbage Rolls can be adapted to align with your dietary choices.

  • Substitute cauliflower rice for traditional rice.
  • Increase the amount of ground beef for a higher fat content.
  • Choose a sugar-free tomato sauce to reduce carb content.

Low-Carb Version:

If you’re watching your carb intake, consider these modifications for a lower-carb Instant Pot Lazy Cabbage Rolls.

  • Replace white rice with cauliflower rice or a low-carb rice alternative.
  • Opt for a low-carb tomato sauce or make your own using fresh tomatoes.

From Pot to Plate, Effortless Elegance:

In concluding our exploration of Instant Pot Lazy Cabbage Rolls, relish in the delightful blend of tender cabbage, seasoned beef, and flavorful tomato sauce—a dish that is more than a meal; it’s a symphony of convenience, a tribute to classic comfort, and an invitation to savor the pleasures of home-cooked goodness without the lengthy preparation.

Whether shared with family on busy weeknights, prepared for a comforting weekend dinner, or enjoyed as a make-ahead option for effortless entertaining, Instant Pot Lazy Cabbage Rolls invite you to embrace the simplicity of the Instant Pot while indulging in the rich flavors of a timeless classic. So, set your Instant Pot to work, savor the aroma of simmering goodness, and relish in the joy of serving a dish that effortlessly combines elegance and ease—a recipe destined to become a cherished part of your comfort food repertoire.