Cabbage Rolls(Golabki)
Tender cabbage rolls filled with seasoned meat and rice, simmered in butter and water, perfect for comforting family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wilt cabbage leaves by scalding in boiling water to which 2 tablespoons vinegar and 1 teaspoon salt have been added.
- Drain the cabbage, cool in cold water, and pat dry.
- Cut out heavy ribs from the cabbage leaves.
- Saute chopped onion in butter until transparent.
- Combine ground beef, ground pork, egg, partially cooked rice, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Spread about 2 tablespoons of the meat and rice mixture on each cabbage leaf.
- Fold the two opposite sides of the leaf and roll, starting with one of the open ends.
- Place the rolled cabbage leaves in a pan.
- Add butter and 1 cup hot water to the pan.
- Simmer slowly for 2 hours.
- Serve the cabbage rolls with mushroom sauce, tomato sauce, or sour cream. They taste even better reheated the next day.
Tips & Substitutions
To make rolling easier, try freezing the cabbage head for a few hours before using; this softens the leaves. If you want a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for the beef and pork. You can also use quinoa instead of rice for a healthier grain alternative. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the meat mixture will enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Cabbage rolls are delicious served with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of tomato sauce. They pair wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad on the side. For an added depth of flavor, serve them alongside a mushroom sauce or alongside dishes like Bavarian Meatballs for a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a splash of water and cover with foil, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. They also freeze well for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage Rolls(Golabki) contains roughly 520 calories, with 22g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 807mg per serving (35% 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 this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option. Additionally, you could use a mix of ground meats, such as lamb or even a vegetarian protein like lentils, to accommodate different dietary preferences.
What can I do if I can't find cabbage?
If cabbage is unavailable, you can use large Swiss chard or collard greens leaves as a substitute. They will provide a similar texture and flavor, though the cooking time may vary slightly. Just be sure to soften the leaves first for easier rolling.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done cooking?
Cabbage rolls are done when the meat is cooked through and the flavors have melded together, which typically takes about two hours of simmering. You can check doneness by cutting one roll in half to ensure the meat is no longer pink. The cabbage should also be tender.
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).