Holiday Cabbage Roll
A hearty, comforting dish featuring tender cabbage rolls filled with seasoned meat and rice, simmered in a rich tomato soup sauce, perfect for family dinners and festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix hamburger, rice, diced onion, chopped bell pepper, and cream of tomato soup in a bowl.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Blanch cabbage leaves by placing them in boiling water for 4 minutes.
- Place an equal amount of meat mixture in the center of each cabbage leaf.
- Roll up the cabbage leaves and fold in the ends to enclose the filling.
- Arrange the cabbage rolls side by side in a heavy, greased pot.
- Pour the remaining tomato soup over the rolls.
- Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Cook for an additional 30 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey instead of hamburger. You can also substitute brown rice for white rice for added nutrition. If you prefer a bit of spice, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. To save time, use pre-cooked rice or leftover rice from another meal. Blanching the cabbage leaves makes them easier to roll, but you can also freeze them to soften before use.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cabbage rolls hot, drizzled with extra tomato soup for added flavor. Pair with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad to balance the meal. These rolls also go well with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. For a festive touch, serve alongside a sweet and sour dish like Hawaiian Pork(Sweet And Sour) for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a pot with a bit of water, cover, and simmer on low heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them on medium power, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Cabbage rolls also freeze well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Cabbage Roll contains roughly 754 calories, with 18g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (133% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (61% of the Daily Value), and protein (36% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2178mg per serving (95% 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 prepare cabbage rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls a day in advance. Just assemble them and store in the refrigerator, covered. When ready to cook, pour the tomato soup over them and simmer as directed. This allows the flavors to meld, making them even tastier!
What type of cabbage is best for this recipe?
Savoy cabbage is an excellent choice due to its tender leaves and mild flavor. However, green cabbage works just as well. Look for heads that are firm and heavy, which indicates freshness. Avoid any with browning or wilting leaves.
Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the filling by adding ingredients like grated carrots, diced mushrooms, or even shredded cheese for a creamier texture. Herbs like parsley or dill can also enhance the flavor. Just be mindful of the total volume to ensure the leaves can still be rolled.
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).