Cabbage Rolls (Lebanese Style)
Lebanese-style cabbage rolls filled with seasoned ground beef and rice, simmered in a tangy lemon sauce, perfect for hearty family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put cabbage leaves in boiling water until limp; drain.
- Mix ground chuck, rice, melted butter, cinnamon, ground cumin, mashed garlic, salt, and pepper thoroughly (except lemon juice).
- Place 1 tablespoon of the meat mixture on each cabbage leaf.
- Roll each leaf like a cigar to enclose the filling.
- Layer the filled cabbage rolls in a pot, closely packed, until all mixture is used.
- Add salt and pepper to the pot.
- Place a lid directly on top of the rolls to hold them down.
- Pour boiling water over the rolls and lid.
- Cover the pot with another lid.
- Cook over medium heat for 30 to 35 minutes.
- Remove the first cover, add lemon juice to the sauce.
- Replace the lid and cook for another 30 minutes until most of the sauce has evaporated.
Tips & Substitutions
To make rolling easier, blanch the cabbage leaves longer until they are very pliable. If you don't have ground chuck, ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes. For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or mint. Adjust the spices to your taste, as cinnamon and cumin can vary in intensity. Serve these alongside Mediterranean recipes for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cabbage rolls warm, drizzled with extra lemon juice for brightness. Pair them with a side of Greek Squash or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. They also complement Oven Baked Tomatoes beautifully, creating a hearty spread. For added texture, consider serving with pita bread or a creamy yogurt sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a covered skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Alternatively, you can microwave them until heated through, ensuring to cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage Rolls (Lebanese Style) contains roughly 902 calories, with 13g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 77g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (158% of the Daily Value), calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1746mg 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 ahead of time and refrigerate them before cooking. Just make sure to cover them well to prevent drying out. They can also be frozen before cooking; simply thaw and cook as directed when ready to serve.
What can I serve with cabbage rolls?
Cabbage rolls pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a tangy tzatziki sauce, roasted vegetables, or a simple Greek salad. For a heartier meal, complement them with rice or couscous, which can help soak up any delicious juices.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make vegetarian cabbage rolls, substitute the ground chuck with a mixture of cooked lentils and vegetables or rice. You can also add beans for extra protein. Season well to ensure a flavorful filling that even meat lovers will enjoy.
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).