STUFFED CABBAGE ROLLS

Remove core from head of cabbage, discard the outer leaves and place cabbage in a large pot of boiling water; boil for about 4-5 minutes; drain and add very cold water to the pan; allow to cool

Once cooled, remove 10-12 cabbage leaves; cut away the thick centre stem from each leaf and set aside

Combine together in a large bowl, ground pork or beef, garlic, paprika, thyme, onion, egg, Garlic Italian Seasoning, pepper, parsley and rice and mix well

Place about 2 tablespoons of meat mixture in the centre of each cabbage leaf and roll up tightly, tucking in the ends; secure with toothpicks; repeat the process until all the meat is used up and set aside

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan and add the onion, thyme and garlic; stir for about 1 minute, then add the chopped tomatoes, garlic Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper and paprika; stir frequently to prevent the sauce from sticking to the pot

Add the beef stock and bring to the boil; simmer for about 15 minutes

When the sauce is ready, place the stuffed cabbage leaves seam-side down in a single layer in the sauce; spoon some of the sauce over the top of the cabbage leaves so that they are covered

Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for about 35-40 minutes

Alternatively pour the tomato sauce into an oven proof dish; place the stuffed cabbage leaves on top seam side down; spoon some of the sauce over the top of the cabbage leaves so that they are covered and bake for about 45 minutes