Halupkies(Cabbage Rolls)
Cabbage rolls filled with savory beef and rice, baked in a flavorful tomato sauce. Perfect comfort food for family dinners or gatherings craving hearty, wholesome flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix thoroughly all ingredients: hamburger, margarine, rice, chopped onion, tomato puree or sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Cut the core out of the head of cabbage.
- Scald the cabbage head in boiling water and remove the leaves.
- Cut off the thick seam from each cabbage leaf.
- Split large cabbage leaves in half if necessary.
- Place 1 tablespoon of filling onto each cabbage leaf.
- Roll up the leaves and place them seam side down in a pan.
- Blend one large can of tomatoes; add 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 tablespoon wine vinegar, and the remaining tomato puree or sauce.
- Pour the tomato mixture over the cabbage rolls, adding enough tomatoes or water to cover them.
- Cut up any unused cabbage and add it to the pan.
- Bake at 325°F until cooked through, about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or garlic to the filling mixture. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked rice or even quinoa as a substitute for long grain rice. To avoid overcooking, keep an eye on the cabbage rolls during baking; you want them tender but not mushy. Pairing with a tangy side salad can enhance the meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve halupkies with a dollop of sour cream on top for added creaminess. A side of freshly steamed cabbage or a simple green salad complements the dish nicely. For a heartier meal, consider pairing with crusty bread or a side of Florence's Beans. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover halupkies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. They can also be microwaved for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Halupkies(Cabbage Rolls) contains roughly 657 calories, with 9g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), iron (12% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1028mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make halupkies ahead of time?
Yes, halupkies can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble the rolls and place them in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try using a mixture of lentils and mushrooms, which will provide a hearty texture and flavor. Just ensure that any substitution is properly seasoned to maintain the dish’s flavor profile.
How do I prevent the cabbage leaves from tearing?
To prevent tearing, ensure you scald the cabbage leaves in boiling water just until they're pliable, about 2-3 minutes. Additionally, removing the thick vein from each leaf will make them easier to roll. If you encounter any tears, simply patch them with an extra piece of leaf.
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).