Grandma'S Cabbage Rolls
Grandma's Cabbage Rolls feature seasoned ground pork and beef wrapped in tender cabbage leaves, baked to perfection, offering comforting flavors suited for family dinners and traditional cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground pork, ground beef, partially cooked rice, chopped onion, salt, and pepper to form meatballs.
- Wilt cabbage leaves in water and use this water for basting.
- Wrap meatballs in wilted cabbage leaves and place in a baking dish.
- Pour 1 cup of the cabbage water over the wrapped meatballs.
- Bake covered for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
When making Grandma's Cabbage Rolls, consider using jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant twist. If you’re short on time, you can substitute the cabbage with collard greens or even large lettuce leaves. For added flavor, mix in some garlic or fresh herbs like dill or parsley. Make sure to season the meat mixture well, as this will enhance the overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grandma's Cabbage Rolls with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for added freshness. They pair beautifully with a side of Erwtensoep Or Dutch Pea Soup for a comforting meal. A crisp green salad or some crusty bread would also complement this hearty dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them before baking; just thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as instructed. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through, to maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Cabbage Rolls contains roughly 252 calories, with 21g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 932mg per serving (41% 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?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative. Just make sure to season it well, as these meats can be milder in flavor compared to pork and beef.
What can I do if the cabbage leaves are too tough to wrap?
If the cabbage leaves are stubborn, try boiling them a bit longer to soften or freeze the whole head overnight; this breaks down the fibers, making them easier to separate and wrap.
Can I prepare the cabbage rolls in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the rolls a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Just pour the cabbage water over before baking to keep them moist. Bake them right before serving for a fresh, hot dish.
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).