Cabbage Rolls (Golobki)
Savory cabbage rolls filled with seasoned ground beef and rice, simmered to tender perfection—classic comfort food perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the cabbage until the outer leaves can be easily removed without tearing.
- Remove the outer leaves, then continue steaming the cabbage until the smaller inner leaves are soft and easily removable, saving the inner leaves for creamed cabbage.
- While the cabbage is cooking, combine the ground beef, Minute rice, chopped onion, chopped green peppers, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
- Separate the steamed cabbage leaves, remove the thick stem from each leaf if desired, and place a spoonful of the meat mixture onto each leaf.
- Roll up each leaf around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go to form neat packages.
- Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a large pot or baking dish, and cover with your choice of tomato sauce or broth.
- Simmer or bake until the meat is cooked through and the cabbage is tender, about 60 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the onions and green peppers before mixing them with the beef and rice. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked rice or even quinoa as a substitute for Minute rice. For a twist, try adding herbs like dill or parsley to the meat mixture. These Beef Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are versatile; you can spice them up with crushed red pepper or Worcestershire sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Cabbage Rolls with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added brightness. They pair beautifully with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside a French Casserole. A glass of red wine can enhance the flavors of the dish wonderfully.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 2-3 minutes until warm. They also freeze well, lasting up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage Rolls (Golobki) contains roughly 1501 calories, with 39g protein, 251g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (215% of the Daily Value), protein (77% of the Daily Value), and iron (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1754mg per serving (76% 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 make these cabbage rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This can save time on busy days and allows the flavors to meld. Just be sure to cover them tightly to prevent drying out.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes for ground beef, providing a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or a mixture of beans and vegetables. Season well to ensure the filling is flavorful.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done cooking?
Cabbage rolls are done when the meat filling reaches an internal temperature of 160°F and the cabbage is tender. You can check this by using a meat thermometer or cutting one roll in half to ensure the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink.
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).