Gotzbki(Stuffed Cabbage)
Gotzbki offers tender cabbage leaves stuffed with savory ground meats and rice, simmered in a rich tomato sauce—comforting, flavorful, perfect for hearty family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove the core from the cabbage.
- Place the whole cabbage in a large pot filled with boiling salted water.
- Cover and cook for 3 minutes or until softened enough to pull off individual leaves.
- Repeat the process to remove all large leaves, about 30 leaves.
- Cut the thick center stem from each leaf.
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, cooked rice, salt, and pepper.
- Place a spoonful of the meat mixture on each cabbage leaf and roll up securely.
- Arrange the stuffed leaves in a large pot.
- In a separate bowl, mix the condensed tomato soup with water.
- Pour the tomato mixture over the stuffed cabbage leaves.
- Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes, until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
When preparing your stuffed cabbage, consider using a mix of ground meats for added flavor; ground turkey or chicken can be used as lighter alternatives. If you prefer a bit of spice, add some red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. To easily peel off cabbage leaves, let the cabbage cool slightly after boiling. For a different twist, try adding diced vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed cabbage hot, drizzled with the tomato sauce from the pot for extra flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, consider serving with mashed potatoes or rice. This dish also makes an excellent centerpiece for a family gathering or a cozy dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Heat on medium power until warmed through, or you can gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gotzbki(Stuffed Cabbage) contains roughly 427 calories, with 27g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (115% of the Daily Value), protein (54% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1348mg per serving (59% 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 fresh tomatoes instead of condensed tomato soup?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of condensed tomato soup. Simply blend about 4 cups of fresh tomatoes and simmer them with some spices to create a sauce. This will give your stuffed cabbage a fresh and vibrant flavor, enhancing the overall dish.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of stuffed cabbage, replace the ground beef and pork with a mixture of cooked lentils, quinoa, or finely chopped mushrooms. You can also add beans for protein and flavor. Keep the rice and seasonings the same to maintain the dish's essence.
Can I freeze stuffed cabbage?
Absolutely! Stuffed cabbage can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and enjoy a comforting meal any time.
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).