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The tomato sauce for stuffed cabbage rolls is the heart of this traditional dish – it adds depth, warmth, and a beautiful rich color. With carefully balanced ingredients and the right blend of herbs and spices, this sauce brings harmony to every bite.
It’s a simple yet aromatic homemade sauce that perfectly complements cabbage rolls, keeping them juicy and flavorful while enhancing the overall taste. Once you try this version, you’ll never go back to store-bought tomato sauces again.
Ingredients for Tomato Sauce for Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Serves 4–6)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2–3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil (or a mix of oil and butter)
- 800 g (28 oz) canned peeled tomatoes in tomato juice
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- salt
- poper
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika (smoked optional)
- a pinch of dried basil
- a pinch of dried oregano or thyme
- water or broth as needed
Method
1In a large saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes, until translucent and soft but not browned.
2Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. If using whole canned tomatoes, gently crush them with a spoon or fork.
3Stir in the tomato paste, sugar, salt, paprika, basil, and oregano. Mix well so that all the flavors combine evenly.
4Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally so the sauce doesn’t stick. Add a little water or broth if the sauce becomes too thick.
5Taste and adjust seasoning – you can add a pinch of sugar or a spoonful of cream to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
6For extra depth, simmer the sauce with a bay leaf and a few peppercorns. This gives the perfect base for your stuffed cabbage rolls.
Tips for the Perfect Tomato Sauce
• Use high-quality tomatoes – Italian San Marzano are ideal for their natural sweetness.
• For a smoother texture, blend the sauce with an immersion blender at the end.
• To make it richer, stir in a teaspoon of butter or a splash of cream before serving.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor that complements meat fillings.
• The sauce tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop overnight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes! Use ripe, flavorful tomatoes – peel them, chop them, and simmer until they break down. Add a tablespoon of tomato paste to enhance color and flavor.
How long can I store this sauce?
It will keep for up to 4 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It also freezes beautifully – just reheat gently before serving.
Why is sugar added to tomato sauce?
A small amount of sugar balances the natural acidity of the tomatoes and brings out their sweetness, creating a smoother and rounder flavor.
