Cabbage And Meat Balls
A hearty dish of stuffed cabbage rolls in a savory tomato and onion sauce, combining tender cabbage, seasoned meat, and rice for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine hamburger, uncooked rice, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
- Boil cabbage leaves in water for 5 minutes until soft. Drain and set aside.
- In a pan, sauté sliced onion in vegetable oil until translucent.
- Add lemon juice, sugar, tomato soup, and water to the pan. Simmer the sauce.
- Take 1/10 of the hamburger mixture, roll it into a ball, and wrap a cabbage leaf around it.
- Repeat with remaining mixture and cabbage leaves.
- Place the cabbage rolls in a large pot with the open side down.
- Pour the onion and soup sauce over the cabbage rolls.
- Simmer on low heat for 3 hours until the cabbage is tender and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the meat mixture. If you're out of rice, quinoa or couscous can serve as excellent substitutes. To enhance the sauce, a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of paprika can elevate the taste. Be sure to adjust cooking times if using thicker cabbage leaves or different meat types, like turkey, for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cabbage and meatballs alongside a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess. A side of crusty bread complements the dish well, perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. For a balanced meal, consider pairing it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables, and it pairs beautifully with Southern Veggies Over Rice.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently simmer the cabbage rolls in a pan with a splash of water to keep them moist, or microwave them covered with a damp paper towel to retain steam. For best flavor, enjoy them the next day as the tastes meld beautifully.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage And Meat Balls contains roughly 1121 calories, with 22g protein, 131g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (132% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (80% of the Daily Value), and protein (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as lighter alternatives, while pork adds a richer flavor. Adjust the seasoning slightly, as different meats have varying flavor profiles. Just ensure to cook the filling through, especially when using poultry.
How do I prevent the cabbage leaves from tearing?
To avoid tears, make sure to blanch the cabbage leaves until they're just pliable, not overly soft. Removing the core before boiling can also help separate the leaves more easily. If a leaf tears, you can use it as an extra layer to wrap around the filling.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cabbage rolls ahead of time. Assemble them, place in a pot with the sauce, and refrigerate for up to a day before cooking. Just allow extra time for simmering if starting from chilled, ensuring they are heated through.
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).