Prepare Cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the whole cabbage and blanch for about 2 minutes until the leaves are pliable. Remove the cabbage, drain well, and allow it to cool before peeling off individual leaves.

Make Filling: Combine the ground meat, rinsed rice, minced onion, and spices in a large mixing bowl. Mix until well incorporated.

Assemble Rolls: Lay a cabbage leaf flat, place about 2 tablespoons of filling at the base, fold the sides over, and roll tightly.

Cook Rolls: Arrange the rolls seam-side down in a heavy-bottomed pot, pour tomato sauce over them, cover, and simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours.

Final Adjustments: Check for doneness, taste the sauce for seasoning, and let the rolls sit for a few minutes before serving.