Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a hearty and flavorful dish, featuring tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices.
Often simmered in a rich tomato sauce, this dish is popular in many cultures, from Eastern Europe to the Middle East.
The rolls are slow-cooked, allowing the flavors to meld together, resulting in a comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Each bite offers a delicious combination of tender cabbage and well-seasoned filling, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ingredients
1 cup COOKED long-grain rice (or similar variety)
1.5 pounds lean ground beef (or ‘extra lean’)
1.5 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 large egg
1 yellow onion , peeled and minced
⅓ cup parsley , roughly chopped
3 cloves garlic , minced
1.5 teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried dill
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ to 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
42 ounces tomato sauce , divided (Three 398
millilitre cans or 14 ounce cans (roughly 5 cups).
See point 5 below in recipe ‘Notes.’)
1 medium head green cabbage (you’ll need about 18 leaves for the rolls and another 8 to 10 or so for the bottom of the dish and over top.)
half cup of water (leftover from boiling cabbage)
fresh dill , chopped (garnish, optional)
Directions
Cook rice per package instructions and lay to one side. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit at this point too.
In a large bowl combine ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, egg, cooked rice, onion, parsley, garlic, sal
Variations for Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Traditional Eastern European Style
Fill the cabbage rolls with a mixture of ground pork, beef, and rice. Serve with a tangy tomato sauce, sometimes enriched with sauerkraut or bacon for extra flavor.
Middle Eastern Style
Use a mixture of ground lamb or beef, rice, pine nuts, and spices like cinnamon, allspice, and mint. Serve with a yogurt sauce flavored with garlic and lemon.
Vegetarian Cabbage Rolls
Replace the meat with a mixture of grains like quinoa or bulgur and vegetables such as mushrooms, carrots, and bell peppers. Add lentils or chickpeas for extra protein.
Spicy Cabbage Rolls
Add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or harissa to the meat mixture for a spicy twist. You can also use spicy sausage or chorizo in the filling.
Greek-Style Cabbage Rolls
Fill the rolls with ground lamb, rice, herbs like dill and parsley, and top with an avgolemono sauce (a lemon and egg-based sauce) for a tangy, creamy finish.
Asian-Inspired Cabbage Rolls
Fill the rolls with ground pork, rice, ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. Serve with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, sesame oil, and vinegar.
Cheesy Cabbage Rolls
Add grated cheese like cheddar or mozzarella to the filling for a rich, creamy texture. Top with extra cheese before baking for a golden, bubbly finish.
Cabbage Rolls with Sauerkraut
Line the bottom of the baking dish with sauerkraut before adding the rolls. The sauerkraut adds a tangy flavor and pairs well with the savory filling.
Tips for Making the Best Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Choose the Right Cabbage
Use large, tender green cabbage leaves for easy rolling. Savoy cabbage is another good option for its soft, crinkly texture.
Blanch the Cabbage Leaves
Before filling, blanch the cabbage leaves in boiling water for 1-2 minutes to soften them, making them easier to roll without tearing.
Avoid Overfilling
Place a small amount of filling in the center of each cabbage leaf, then roll it up tightly. Overfilling can cause the rolls to burst open during cooking.
Secure the Rolls
Tuck the sides of the cabbage leaves as you roll to seal them well. If needed, use toothpicks to keep them in place during cooking.
Use a Flavorful Sauce
A rich, flavorful sauce like tomato, tomato-based broth, or cream-based sauce can elevate the flavor of the rolls. Pour it generously over the rolls before baking or simmering.
Slow Cooking for Tenderness
Cabbage rolls benefit from slow cooking. Bake them in a covered dish at a low temperature (around 180°C/350°F) for 1.5-2 hours, or simmer them on the stovetop.
Rest Before Serving
Let the cabbage rolls rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to settle and the rolls to firm up, making them easier to serve.
Make in Advance
Stuffed cabbage rolls are perfect for making ahead. Prepare them up to a day in advance and store them in the fridge before baking. They also freeze well for future meals.
These variations and tips will help you create flavorful, tender, and perfectly rolled stuffed cabbage rolls, suited to a variety of tastes!