Stuffed cabbage rolls, also known as holubtsi, are a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This recipe offers a delightful combination of tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling of meat and rice, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, these rolls are not only satisfying but also easy to prepare. Let’s dive into this culinary tradition that’s sure to impress your guests!
Ingredients
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 pound ground meat (beef, pork, or turkey)
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
– Optional: 1 egg for binding
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 30 minutes, and cooking time is around 1 hour.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of stuffed cabbage rolls contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. This is based on a serving size of 2 rolls.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
3. Carefully remove cabbage leaves, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until soft.
4. In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
5. In a bowl, mix ground meat, cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Place a generous spoonful of filling into each cabbage leaf.
7. Roll the leaf tightly, tucking in the sides, and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
8. Pour tomato sauce over the rolls, covering them completely.
9. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
10. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and slightly browned.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground meat with plant-based options like lentils or quinoa for a vegetarian version. Additionally, brown rice can replace white rice for a healthier choice.
Serving and Pairings
Stuffed cabbage rolls pair beautifully with a side of crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or a dollop of sour cream on top. They also complement roasted vegetables well.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover stuffed cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the cabbage leaves can make them too mushy.
- Not seasoning the filling adequately may result in bland rolls.
- Forgetting to cover the dish while baking can dry out the rolls.
- Using raw rice instead of pre-cooked can lead to uneven cooking.
- Not tucking in the sides of the cabbage leaves can cause the filling to spill out.
Helpful Tips
- Use a sharp knife to carefully remove the core from the cabbage for easier leaf separation.
- Let the filling cool slightly before wrapping to prevent tearing the leaves.
- Add spices according to your taste for a personalized flavor.
- Double the recipe and freeze half for quick meals later.
FAQs
Can I use different types of meat for the filling?
Yes, you can use any type of ground meat you prefer, including chicken or a mix of meats for varied flavor.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done?
The rolls should be heated through with the sauce bubbling. The meat should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
Can I make stuffed cabbage rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
What can I serve with stuffed cabbage rolls?
They pair well with a side of mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Are stuffed cabbage rolls healthy?
They can be a healthy meal option, especially if you use lean meat and add vegetables to the filling.
Conclusion
Stuffed cabbage rolls are a delightful dish that combines tradition with comfort. With their savory filling and rich sauce, they make for a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or reheated later, they are sure to satisfy your cravings. Try making them today and share the love with family and friends!
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 pound ground meat beef, pork, or turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 15 oz tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Optional: 1 egg for binding
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Carefully remove cabbage leaves, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until soft.
- In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
- In a bowl, mix ground meat, cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place a generous spoonful of filling into each cabbage leaf.
- Roll the leaf tightly, tucking in the sides, and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Pour tomato sauce over the rolls, covering them completely.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and slightly browned.
