Cabbage Rolls(Malfoof)
Malfoof, or cabbage rolls, feature tender cabbage leaves filled with seasoned rice and meat, baked to perfection with a rich tomato and lemon-flavored sauce, perfect for comforting meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Core and parboil the cabbage until limp.
- Cut the cabbage leaves in half and remove the ribs.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Combine all ingredients except cabbage leaves, tomato paste, and water in a mixing bowl.
- Place a heaping tablespoon of the filling in the center of a cabbage leaf lengthwise.
- Fold the outside edges 1/2 inch towards the center and roll up.
- Arrange the filled cabbage rolls in a casserole dish or small roaster.
- Top with tomato paste and add water as needed.
- Bake in the preheated oven until cooked through and flavorful.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful filling, consider adding herbs like dill or mint, which can enhance the dish. You can substitute the ground beef or lamb with ground turkey for a leaner option. If you have leftover rice, it can work just as well for this recipe. To make the cabbage easier to roll, ensure it is thoroughly parboiled until limp, but not overly soft.
Serving Suggestions
Cabbage rolls can be served with a drizzle of lemon juice or a side of yogurt for added creaminess. They pair beautifully with Mediterranean recipes like Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmathes) or a fresh salad. For a heartier meal, serve with rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cabbage 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 (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. They can also be microwaved, but the oven method helps maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage Rolls(Malfoof) contains roughly 988 calories, with 3g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 104g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 594mg per serving (26% 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 freeze cabbage rolls?
Yes, cabbage rolls freeze well! To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of tomato paste?
If you don't have tomato paste, you can substitute with crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce. However, you may need to adjust the water added to ensure the filling remains moist while baking. Adding a bit of sugar can help mimic the sweetness of tomato paste.
How can I make these cabbage rolls vegetarian?
To make vegetarian cabbage rolls, replace the ground meat with a mix of cooked lentils, mushrooms, and finely chopped vegetables. You can also add spices like cumin and paprika for extra flavor. The rice can stay as is, or you can use quinoa for a protein boost.
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).