Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Introduction
Stuffed cabbage rolls may look humble, but they are one of the most comforting and time-honored dishes across many cultures. Tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful meat and rice filling, gently simmered in a savory tomato sauce—this dish proves that simple ingredients can create deeply satisfying meals. Whether you grew up eating them or are trying them for the first time, stuffed cabbage rolls are worth every bite.
Description
Stuffed cabbage rolls consist of blanched cabbage leaves filled with a seasoned mixture of ground meat, rice, and aromatics. The rolls are layered in a pot, covered with sauce, and slowly cooked until meltingly tender. The result is a hearty, comforting dish with balanced flavors—savory, slightly tangy, and wonderfully aromatic.
Ingredients Quantity (Serves 6–8)
For the Cabbage Rolls
1 large head of green cabbage
500 g ground meat (beef, pork, or a combination)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup uncooked white rice (or parboiled rice)
1 egg
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme or dill
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For the Sauce
2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup water or broth
1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Cabbage
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head into the boiling water. Blanch for 2–3 minutes, peeling off softened leaves as they loosen. Set aside to cool.
Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine ground meat, chopped onion, garlic, rice, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, herbs, and parsley. Mix gently until well combined—do not overmix.
Assemble the Rolls
Place a spoonful of filling at the base of each cabbage leaf. Fold in the sides and roll tightly. Repeat until filling is used.
Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, mix tomato sauce, tomato paste, water or broth, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper.
Cook the Rolls
Line the bottom of a pot or baking dish with leftover cabbage leaves. Arrange rolls seam-side down, pour sauce over them, cover, and simmer on low heat for 45–50 minutes (or bake at 180°C / 350°F).
Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve hot with bread or mashed potatoes.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Stuffed cabbage rolls appear in cuisines across Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean, known by names such as golabki, sarmale, dolma, and holubtsi. Traditionally prepared for holidays and family gatherings, they symbolize warmth, generosity, and togetherness—often made in large batches and shared across generations.
Optional Additions
Add grated carrots for sweetness
Mix in smoked paprika for depth
Use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist
Add sour cream or yogurt when serving
Include raisins or pine nuts for a regional variation
Tips for Success
Choose large, flexible cabbage leaves to avoid tearing
Freeze the cabbage overnight to soften leaves easily
Don’t overfill—rolls may burst during cooking
Low and slow cooking ensures tender rolls
Taste the sauce before cooking and adjust seasoning
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 350–400 kcal
Protein: 22–25 g
Fat: 18–22 g
Carbohydrates: 25–30 g
Fiber: 4–6 g
(Values vary depending on meat and portion size)
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Stuffed cabbage rolls strike a perfect balance between comfort food and nourishment. Cabbage is rich in fiber and antioxidants, while the filling provides protein and essential nutrients. With mindful ingredient choices, this dish can be both indulgent and health-conscious.
Conclusion
Stuffed cabbage rolls are proof that traditional dishes never go out of style. Rich in flavor, history, and heart, they remain a favorite across cultures and generations. Once you try them, it’s easy to see why they’ve stood the test of time.
Recommendation
If you’ve ever wondered, “Would anyone actually eat stuffed cabbage rolls?”—the answer is a confident yes. Try them once, and you may find yourself making them again and again, especially for family dinners and special occasions.
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