Cabbage Roll Recipe (with Video)

Cabbage Roll Recipe: Cabbage rolls are a timeless comfort food cherished around the globe, especially in Eastern European, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern cuisines.

Whether you’re making them for a family gathering or meal prepping for the week, cabbage rolls offer a savory blend of seasoned filling wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and simmered in a delicious sauce.

With this step-by-step guide, you’ll master the art of creating mouth-watering cabbage rolls right from your kitchen.

Ingredients Required

Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect cabbage rolls:

For the Rolls:

• 1 large head of cabbage (green or savoy)
• 1 pound (500g) ground meat (beef, pork, or turkey)
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 small onion (finely diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)

For the Sauce:

• 2 cups crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme

Substitutions & Tips:

• Swap ground meat for plant-based protein to make it vegetarian.
• Add grated carrots or bell peppers to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
• Use tomato paste mixed with broth if you don’t have crushed tomatoes.

Tools and Equipment Needed

Before starting, ensure you have the right tools for a smooth cooking experience:

• Large pot for boiling cabbage
• Mixing bowls for the filling
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Large skillet for making the sauce
• Baking dish or casserole pan
• Ladle or spoon for sauce application
• Aluminum foil or lid for covering during baking

Tip: Lay out all your tools and ingredients before you start to save time and effort!

Preparing the Cabbage

The key to making perfect cabbage rolls is soft, pliable cabbage leaves that won’t tear during rolling.

Step 1: Selecting the Right Cabbage

Look for a large, firm cabbage head with loose, green leaves. Savoy cabbage is a great choice because of its tender texture and easy-to-peel leaves.

Step 2: Softening the Leaves

• Remove the outermost leaves (they are often too tough).
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Core the cabbage by cutting out the thick stem at the base.
• Submerge the cabbage in boiling water for 3-5 minutes to soften the leaves.
• As the outer leaves soften, peel them off and set them aside on a plate. Repeat until you have 12-15 softened leaves.

Alternatively, you can freeze the cabbage overnight. Once thawed, the leaves will be naturally softened.

Preparing the Filling

The filling is where you can customize the flavor profile of your cabbage rolls.

Ingredients for the Filling

• Ground meat of your choice (beef, pork, or turkey)
• Cooked rice (for binding and texture)
• Finely diced onions and garlic for flavor
• Salt, pepper, and other seasonings (paprika, parsley)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, onions, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Add paprika and chopped parsley for extra flavor.
3. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the filling too dense.
4. For a taste test, cook a small portion of the filling in a pan to adjust seasoning if needed.

Making the Sauce

A rich, tangy tomato sauce elevates the flavor of cabbage rolls.

Ingredients for the Sauce:

• Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
• Olive oil
• Diced onions and minced garlic
• Sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
• Herbs like oregano or thyme

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent (about 3-5 minutes).
3. Add crushed tomatoes and stir well.
4. Season with salt, pepper, sugar, and herbs.
5. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to develop a rich flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Assembling the Cabbage Rolls

Now comes the fun part—rolling the cabbage!

Step 1: Filling the Leaves

• Lay a softened cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface.
• Place about 2-3 tablespoons of filling near the base of the leaf.

Step 2: Rolling Technique

1. Fold the sides of the leaf inward over the filling.
2. Roll the leaf from the base up to form a tight, cylindrical shape.
3. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.

Tip:

If the cabbage leaf is too thick near the stem, slice off or flatten the thick vein to make rolling easier.

Cooking Methods

Cabbage rolls can be cooked in various ways depending on your preference.

Baking:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Arrange the rolls in a baking dish, seam side down.
• Pour sauce evenly over the rolls.
• Cover with foil and bake for 60-90 minutes.

Steaming:

• Place cabbage rolls in a steamer basket.
• Add sauce and steam for 45-60 minutes.

Slow-Cooking:

• Arrange rolls in a slow cooker.
• Cover with sauce and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Serving Suggestions

Cabbage rolls are versatile and can be paired with various sides and garnishes to elevate the meal.

Popular Side Dishes:

• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture complements the rich flavors of the rolls.
• Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini add a touch of sweetness and color.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the tomato sauce.
• Cucumber and Tomato Salad: A refreshing salad balances out the heartiness of the dish.

Garnish Ideas:

• Freshly chopped parsley or dill adds a pop of color and freshness.
• A dollop of sour cream can provide a creamy contrast.
• Sprinkle grated parmesan or feta cheese for a rich, tangy flavor boost.

For presentation, arrange the rolls neatly on a large serving platter with extra sauce drizzled on top.

Common Variations

Cabbage rolls have different variations across cultures, each offering a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Eastern European Style:

• Uses a mixture of pork and beef for the filling.
• Often includes a hearty tomato sauce with smoked paprika.

Mediterranean Style:

• Uses lamb or beef with rice and herbs like mint and dill.
• Sometimes topped with a lemony yogurt sauce instead of tomato sauce.

Asian-Inspired Cabbage Rolls:

• Incorporates ground pork, ginger, garlic, and soy sauce.
• The rolls are steamed and served with a light soy-based dipping sauce.

Vegetarian Cabbage Rolls:

• Filled with a mixture of quinoa, lentils, or mushrooms.
• Vegan-friendly tomato or tahini sauce adds flavor.

Feel free to experiment with ingredients to create your own signature version!

Storing and Reheating Cabbage Rolls

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), it’s important to store and reheat them properly to maintain their flavor and texture.

Storage Instructions:

• Allow the rolls to cool to room temperature.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the cabbage rolls for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips:

• Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rolls in a baking dish, add extra sauce if needed, cover with foil, and bake for 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave Method: Place a couple of rolls on a microwave-safe plate. Add a spoonful of sauce to keep them moist, cover with a microwave-safe lid, and heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop Method: Simmer the rolls gently in a saucepan with additional sauce for 10-15 minutes.

Proper reheating ensures the cabbage rolls retain their juiciness and rich flavor.

Health Benefits of Cabbage Rolls

Cabbage rolls are not just tasty—they’re packed with nutrients and health benefits!

Rich in Fiber:

Both cabbage and rice provide dietary fiber, which supports healthy digestion and helps you feel full longer.

High in Protein:

The ground meat filling offers a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Vegetarian versions can use protein-rich alternatives like lentils or quinoa.

Vitamin and Mineral Boost:

• Cabbage is loaded with vitamins C and K, which promote immune health and bone strength.
• Onions and garlic add antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Low-Carb and Keto Options:

For those on low-carb diets, swap rice for cauliflower rice and use a high-fat meat like ground pork to make it keto-friendly.

By adjusting the ingredients, you can cater this recipe to meet your dietary preferences and goals.

Tips for Perfect Cabbage Rolls

Even experienced cooks can face challenges when making cabbage rolls. Here are some pro tips to ensure success:

1. Don’t Overfill the Rolls:

Adding too much filling can cause the rolls to burst open while cooking. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons of filling per leaf.

2. Use Pliable Cabbage Leaves:

If your cabbage leaves are too stiff, they’ll tear. Make sure to soften them in boiling water or by freezing overnight.

3. Season Generously:

Both the filling and sauce should be well-seasoned. Taste as you go to adjust salt, pepper, and other spices.

4. Layer and Cover Properly:

When placing the rolls in a baking dish, layer them close together to prevent them from unrolling. Pour enough sauce over the rolls to keep them moist and flavorful.

5. Allow Time for Resting:

After baking or steaming, let the rolls rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the rolls to firm up.

FAQs about Cabbage Roll Recipe

1. What are the key ingredients for cabbage rolls?

The essential ingredients for cabbage rolls typically include cabbage, ground meat (such as beef, pork, or turkey), rice, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices. Tomato sauce or a similar liquid is often used for cooking to add flavor and moisture.

2. How do you prepare the cabbage for rolling?

To prepare cabbage for rolling, you need to soften the leaves first. This can be done by either boiling the whole head of cabbage until the leaves become pliable or by freezing the cabbage and then thawing it, which also makes the leaves easy to roll without cooking.

3. What type of cabbage is best for cabbage rolls?

Savoy cabbage is often recommended for cabbage rolls because its leaves are more flexible and it has a milder flavor. However, regular green cabbage is also widely used and works well.

4. Can cabbage rolls be made vegetarian?

Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, replace the ground meat with a mixture of lentils, quinoa, or additional vegetables. Make sure to adjust the seasoning to enhance the filling’s flavor.

5. How long do cabbage rolls take to cook?

The cooking time for cabbage rolls can vary depending on the method used. Baking in the oven typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours at 350°F (175°C). If using a slow cooker, they can cook on low for about 8 hours or on high for about 4 hours.

6. Are cabbage rolls suitable for freezing?

Cabbage rolls are excellent for freezing. Prepare and cook your cabbage rolls, let them cool completely, and then store them in freezer-safe containers. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

7. How do you reheat cabbage rolls?

To reheat cabbage rolls, place them in an oven-safe dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave them on high for a few minutes until warm.

8. What side dishes go well with cabbage rolls?

Cabbage rolls pair well with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp green salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving them with a side of crusty bread or a light soup.

Conclusion

Cabbage rolls are a hearty, comforting dish packed with rich flavors and versatile enough to suit various tastes and dietary needs. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll have no trouble crafting perfect rolls that your family and friends will love. Whether you bake, steam, or slow-cook them, these tender, flavorful rolls are sure to become a favorite on your meal rotation. So, grab that cabbage, start rolling, and enjoy the delicious results!