how to make

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Originating in Eastern Europe, particularly Poland, Russia, and Ukraine, Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, known as Golabki or Halupki, reflect humble peasant origins. They emerged as a practical dish, marrying inexpensive ingredients like cabbage and grains with ground meat. Loved for their comforting flavors, they've become staples in Jewish, Polish, and Eastern European cuisines. However, their popularity transcends borders, appealing to those seeking hearty, nostalgic meals worldwide. With variations found in Jewish, Middle Eastern, and Asian cuisines, Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are cherished for their blend of savory fillings wrapped in tender cabbage leaves, evoking warmth and tradition on tables across diverse cultures.

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are commonly enjoyed as a main dish, often served with mashed potatoes or fresh salads for balance. Some prefer them with a dollop of sour cream or alongside pickles for added flavor. Beverages like wine or sparkling water complement the meal nicely.

Image of dish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 egg
  • 1 head cabbage

Tomato Souce

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs

Guide

Make the Sauce

  • Heat a skillet over medium heat.
  • Sauté onions and garlic in oil.
  • Add tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings.
  • Simmer for 10-15 mins.

Prepare the Leaves

  • Boil cabbage for 3-5 mins.
  • Peel off 12 leaves when flexible.

Assemble

  • Mix rice filling with sauce.
  • Remove vein from leaves.
  • Fill and roll each leaf with meat mixture.

Prepare for baking

  • Preheat oven to 350°F.
  • Grease a 9×13 baking pan.

Bake

  • Pour half of sauce in pan.
  • Arrange rolls seam side down.
  • Pour remaining sauce on top.
  • Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour, checking after 45 mins.

Recipe Variations

  • Ground Meats: Use beef, pork, chicken, turkey, or Italian sausage.
  • Grains: Try brown rice, quinoa, bulgur, couscous, or lentils.
  • Vegetarian: Substitute beef with more grains or beans.
  • Veggies: Add finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
  • Spicy: Mix in chili powder or Sriracha sauce for heat.
  • Flavors: Experiment with Taco or Cajun Seasoning. Drizzle with lemon juice.

Sides to Serve

  • Mashed potatoes or slow cooker version.
  • Salad for freshness.
  • Soft dinner rolls or breadsticks for a complete meal.