Beat Bobby Flay: Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Challenge | Full Episode Recap | S9 E7

In this thrilling episode of Beat Bobby Flay, chefs Kevin Naderi and Mark Vecchitto step into the culinary arena, armed with their unique cooking styles and creative flair. The challenge begins with a round focused on cannellini beans, where both chefs showcase their skills and flavor combinations. After an intense competition, one chef emerges victorious, earning the chance to challenge the legendary Bobby Flay himself. They select a classic dish: stuffed cabbage rolls.

Ingredients for Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Cabbage Leaves:
  • 1 large head of cabbage
• Filling:
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Sauce:
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

Preparing the Cabbage

1. Boil the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core of the cabbage and place the entire head in the boiling water for about 2-3 minutes, or until the leaves are tender and pliable. Remove the cabbage from the water and let it cool. Peel off the leaves as they soften.

Making the Filling

2. Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine your ground meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Assembling the Rolls

3. Stuff the Cabbage Leaves: Take a cabbage leaf and place about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling at the base. Fold in the sides and roll it up tightly, starting from the base. Repeat this process with the remaining leaves and filling.

Preparing the Sauce

4. Prepare the Tomato Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, vinegar, and Italian seasoning until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Cooking the Rolls

5. Arrange the Rolls: In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom. Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam side down in the dish. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are well covered.

6. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes to brown the tops.

Serving:

7. Plate and Enjoy: Once cooked, let the rolls rest for a few minutes. Serve them warm, drizzled with extra sauce and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

This episode captures the essence of culinary competition as both chefs strive to impress the judges while showcasing their creativity. Who can forget the intensity of watching as Bobby Flay faces off against a worthy opponent, both preparing stuffed cabbage rolls but infusing their personal touches into such a beloved dish?

Whether you’re rooting for a contestant or Bobby himself, this challenge proves that cooking is as much about passion as it is about flavor. Tune in and prepare to be inspired!

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Video “Beat Bobby Flay: Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Challenge | Full Episode Recap | S9 E7 | Food Network” was uploaded on 11/03/2025 to Youtube Channel Food Network