Friend Pat'S Swedish Cabbage Rolls
Friend Pat's Swedish Cabbage Rolls feature tender cabbage leaves filled with savory meat and rice mixture, seasoned with cinnamon, creating a comforting, hearty dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except cabbage.
- Boil cabbage until leaves are soft enough to separate from the cabbage head.
- Cut out the hard stem from each leaf.
- Place stuffing in each cabbage leaf and roll, securing with toothpicks.
- Sprinkle each layer with cinnamon and lemon juice.
- Pour the can of tomato juice plus juice from the tomatoes over the cabbage rolls.
- Cook slowly in the oven for 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding chopped herbs like dill or parsley to the stuffing mixture. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for beef and sausage. Additionally, you can use quinoa instead of rice for a healthier twist. Be sure to remove tough cabbage stems carefully to avoid tearing the leaves, ensuring a neat roll that holds the filling well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cabbage rolls hot, drizzled with the tomato sauce from the baking dish. They pair beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with crusty bread or a side of pickled beets. A dollop of sour cream on top adds a rich finish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the cabbage rolls in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. They can also be microwaved for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Friend Pat'S Swedish Cabbage Rolls contains roughly 528 calories, with 12g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2122mg per serving (92% 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 the cabbage rolls for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but uncooked cabbage rolls. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked straight from frozen; just add extra time to the cooking process.
What can I use instead of rice in the filling?
If you're looking for a substitute for rice, try using cauliflower rice or bulgur wheat for a different texture. Quinoa is another excellent option that adds protein and a nutty flavor, making it a great alternative in this dish.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done cooking?
The cabbage rolls are done when the filling reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the cabbage is tender. You can check this with a meat thermometer. The sauce should be bubbly, and the rolls should be heated through, ensuring a delicious and safe meal.
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).