Halupsi
Hearty stuffed cabbage rolls with savory rice and ground beef, baked in tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the cabbage, separate the leaves, and set aside.
- Mix rice, diced onions, diced green pepper, diced carrots, ground beef, salt, and pepper.
- Wrap 1/2 cup of the mixture in each cabbage leaf and place in a greased casserole dish.
- Pour 1/2 cup water over the assembled cabbage rolls.
- Bake for 90 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
- Stir together canned tomato soup and sour cream.
- Pour the tomato-sour cream mixture over the baked cabbage rolls.
- Bake for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding chopped garlic or herbs like dill or parsley to the meat mixture. If you don't have sour cream, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute, offering similar creaminess. You can also use quinoa instead of rice for a healthier alternative. To make assembly easier, blanch the cabbage leaves just until pliable, but not fully cooked.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Halupsi with a dollop of additional sour cream on top for added richness. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a comforting side, consider serving with a warm bowl of soup, like Dr. Taylor'S Father'S Brunswick Stew, to round out the dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Halupsi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the cabbage rolls in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-30 minutes, adding a splash of water if they seem dry. You can also microwave them for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Halupsi contains roughly 403 calories, with 18g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (78% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1495mg per serving (65% 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 make Halupsi ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cabbage rolls in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. This makes it easy to have a homemade meal ready for busy days.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, try using a mix of lentils and mushrooms, which will provide a hearty texture and flavor similar to meat.
Can I freeze Halupsi?
Absolutely! Halupsi freezes well. Just make sure to let the rolls cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.
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).