Betty Ann'S Cabbage Rolls
Cabbage rolls filled with seasoned beef and rice, simmered in tangy tomato sauce with optional sauerkraut for a hearty, comforting meal suited for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix hamburger, egg, and cooked rice together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add 2 or 3 tablespoons of tomato sauce to the meat mixture.
- Place a spoonful of the meat mixture in each cabbage leaf.
- Roll the leaf around the meat tightly and secure with wooden toothpicks.
- Arrange the cabbage rolls on a rack in a pressure cooker.
- Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the rolls.
- Mix brown sugar, vinegar, and water; pour the mixture over the rolls.
- Cook in a pressure cooker for 10 minutes or simmer without pressure for 1.5 hours.
- After cooking, add sauerkraut if desired.
- Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and pork in your meat mixture. If you don't have cooked rice on hand, quinoa or couscous can work well as substitutes. To enhance the sauce, add a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder. Make sure the cabbage leaves are pliable to prevent tearing when rolling. If you're short on time, precooked cabbage can be found in some grocery stores.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cabbage rolls hot, garnished with fresh parsley or dill for a pop of color. They pair beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of mashed potatoes, which complement the dish's flavors. They also go well with a tangy yogurt sauce for an extra layer of taste.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a covered dish in the microwave, adding a bit of water to maintain moisture, or reheat them gently on the stove over low heat. For long-term storage, freeze the cooked rolls, layering them with parchment paper, for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Betty Ann'S Cabbage Rolls contains roughly 862 calories, with 14g protein, 175g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value), calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 605mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for the filling?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter option. Each type of meat will bring a different flavor profile to the cabbage rolls, so feel free to experiment according to your preference.
What can I add to the sauce for more flavor?
In addition to brown sugar and vinegar, consider adding Worcestershire sauce or a splash of soy sauce for depth. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can also enhance the flavor. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick.
How can I make these rolls vegetarian?
You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by replacing the hamburger with a mixture of mushrooms, lentils, or a meat substitute. Ensure the rice used is seasoned well to make up for the missing flavors from the meat. Adding chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots can also enhance the filling.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).