Cabbage-Beef Rolls
Cabbage-Beef Rolls are savory stuffed cabbage leaves filled with seasoned ground beef, rice, and herbs, simmered in a tomato-based sauce for a hearty, flavorful meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the cabbage; cut the stem end and core.
- Put the cabbage in a large kettle; cover with boiling salted water and cook until the leaves are loose enough to separate with a fork, about 20 minutes.
- Remove the cabbage; drain and separate the leaves.
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onions, uncooked rice, chopped mint, salt, and pepper.
- Place a portion of the meat mixture on each cabbage leaf and roll up, folding the edges inward.
- Arrange the cabbage rolls in a large pot.
- In a saucepan, melt butter or margarine and add canned tomatoes and hot water.
- Pour the tomato mixture over the cabbage rolls.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 40 minutes, until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic or paprika into the meat mixture. If you want a lighter dish, try using ground turkey instead of beef. You can also substitute quinoa for rice for a gluten-free option. Additionally, if fresh mint is unavailable, dried mint can be used in a pinch, though the flavor will be less potent.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cabbage-beef rolls with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. For a comforting touch, pair them with Noodle Kugel, which complements the savory flavors perfectly. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top can enhance the dish's presentation and taste.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cabbage-beef rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage-Beef Rolls contains roughly 598 calories, with 15g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), protein (30% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2610mg per serving (113% 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 prepare the cabbage rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cabbage rolls ahead of time. Assemble them, place them in the pot with the sauce, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they are cold.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. Each will provide a different flavor profile, so adjust seasonings accordingly to enhance the taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the meat mixture. You can also serve the cabbage rolls with a spicy sauce or hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra spice.
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).