Introduction:
Stuffed cabbage rolls, also known as golabki (Polish), holubtsi (Ukrainian), or simply cabbage rolls, are a comforting dish made with tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices, simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This hearty dish is perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or festive gatherings. The flavors deepen as they cook, making them even better the next day!
🧂 Ingredients:
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 1 large head of green cabbage
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or half beef, half pork)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- ½ cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano or basil (optional)
- Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)
🍳 Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Carefully remove the core from the cabbage head.
- Place the whole cabbage in the boiling water for 2–3 minutes. As the outer leaves soften, gently peel them off and set aside. Continue until you have about 12–15 leaves.
- Trim the thick vein at the base of each leaf to make rolling easier (don’t cut through the leaf).
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Ground meat
- Cooked rice
- Onion
- Garlic
- Egg
- Salt, pepper, paprika, parsley
- Mix everything until well incorporated. Don’t overmix to keep the filling tender.
Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Sauté the onion and garlic until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, broth, sugar, salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Simmer for 10–15 minutes. Add lemon juice if using, then taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
- Lay a cabbage leaf flat. Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling near the base.
- Fold the sides in and roll up tightly like a burrito.
- Repeat with all leaves and filling.
Step 5: Cook the Rolls
Oven Method (Recommended):
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish.
- Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls.
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 1 hour 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for 15 more minutes.
Stovetop Method:
- Place a layer of sauce in the bottom of a large pot.
- Add rolls in layers, pouring sauce between each.
- Cover and simmer on low for about 1 hour 30 minutes.
🥄 Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot with sour cream and fresh parsley.
- Pair with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
- Even better the next day—refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
✅ Tips & Variations:
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add grated carrots or chopped mushrooms to the filling for extra veggies.
- For spice, add a pinch of chili flakes or hot paprika to the sauce.