1. Prepare the cabbage: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage head and place the whole cabbage in the boiling water. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the outer leaves are softened and can be easily peeled off. Remove the cabbage from the water and let it cool slightly before carefully peeling off the leaves. Trim the thick vein from the bottom of each leaf to make them easier to roll.

2. Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and oregano. Mix until well combined.

3. Assemble the rolls: Place a spoonful of the filling onto the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly, tucking in the edges as you go. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.

4. Prepare the sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, brown sugar, and lemon juice.

5. Cook the rolls: Spread a thin layer of the sauce in the bottom of a large baking dish. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish. Pour the remaining sauce over the top of the rolls, covering them evenly.

6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the cabbage rolls are cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.

7. Serve: Once done, remove the foil from the baking dish and let the cabbage rolls cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for garnish, if desired, and serve hot.

Conclusion

These classic stuffed cabbage rolls are a labor of love, but the end result is well worth the effort. Whether enjoyed as a comforting weeknight meal or served up at a special occasion, these hearty rolls are sure to satisfy. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and indulge in the deliciousness of homemade stuffed cabbage rolls.