Golubtzi (Stuffed Cabbage)
Golubtzi features tender cabbage leaves stuffed with seasoned meat and rice, baked in tomato sauce, topped with sour cream—comforting, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove outer leaves from cabbage and cook in salt water for 5 minutes or until leaves are flexible.
- Drain and cool.
- Add minced onion to fat and brown slightly.
- Add hamburger and brown.
- Add cooked rice and spices.
- Drop a tablespoon of meat mixture into the stem end of each cabbage leaf.
- Start rolling from the stem end and fasten with toothpicks.
- Place bundles in a baking pan and pour undiluted tomato soup over them.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
- Add sour cream about 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For easier rolling, use cabbage leaves that are the same size and shape. If you don't have hamburger, ground turkey or chicken can be a great substitute. To enhance flavor, consider adding herbs like dill or thyme to the meat mixture. Be cautious not to overcook the cabbage leaves initially; they should be pliable but not mushy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve golubtzi with a dollop of sour cream on top for added creaminess. They pair wonderfully with a side of Portuguese Green Beans or a light salad for a complete meal. For an extra touch, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or dill before serving to brighten the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover golubtzi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a bit of broth or water, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. They also freeze well for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Golubtzi (Stuffed Cabbage) contains roughly 225 calories, with 9g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1519mg per serving (66% 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 the filling?
Absolutely! While hamburger is traditional, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of meats for different flavors. Just ensure the meat is well-seasoned to enhance the dish's overall taste.
What can I do if I can't find fresh cabbage?
If fresh cabbage is unavailable, you can use frozen cabbage leaves. Just thaw them before using, and ensure they are tender enough to roll. Alternatively, you might try using grape leaves for a unique twist on the recipe.
How can I make golubtzi vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the hamburger with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, and cooked quinoa or rice. Season well with salt, pepper, and herbs to ensure the filling is flavorful and satisfying.
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).