Holubtsi (Cabbage Rolls)
Savory cabbage rolls filled with a flavorful mixture of pork, beef, rice, and onions, baked in tomato juice; perfect for hearty family dinners or comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Core the cabbage and place the head in a deep pot of boiling water.
- Let stand until the leaves are soft and pliable.
- Remove from water and separate the leaves.
- Return the cabbage to boiling water if inside leaves require further softening.
- Pare down the hard center rib on each leaf.
- Add salt and rice to the boiling water and cover; turn off heat.
- Let stand until the rice absorbs all water.
- In a large frying pan, sauté the chopped onions in bacon drippings until tender.
- Add ground pork and ground beef; cook until lightly browned.
- Combine the cooked meat with the rice mixture.
- Cool slightly, then add beaten egg, garlic salt, and pepper.
- Line the bottom of a large baking dish with cabbage leaves.
- Place a heaping tablespoon of the meat mixture onto each cabbage leaf.
- Roll once, tuck in the sides, and roll completely.
- Arrange the rolls in layers in the casserole dish.
- Season each layer with salt and pepper.
- Pour tomato juice over the rolls.
- Cover with 2 or 3 large cabbage leaves and cover tightly.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 1 hour.
- Uncover and continue baking and basting for another 30 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped crisp bacon, sour cream, or additional tomato juice.
Tips & Substitutions
For an easier rolling process, make sure the cabbage leaves are soft enough by boiling them properly. If you don't have ground pork, you can use additional ground beef or turkey as a substitute. For added flavor, consider mixing in herbs like dill or parsley. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the meat with lentils or a mixture of finely chopped vegetables and mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
Serve holubtsi hot, garnished with crispy bacon bits and a dollop of sour cream for added richness. They pair wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside a bowl of Hearty Spanish Soup for a delightful dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover holubtsi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a bit of tomato juice and cover with foil. Heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 25-30 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave them, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holubtsi (Cabbage Rolls) contains roughly 239 calories, with 12g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value) and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1074mg per serving (47% 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 holubtsi ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare holubtsi a day in advance. Assemble the rolls, place them in the baking dish, and cover with plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they are cold from the fridge.
What can I serve with holubtsi?
Holubtsi pairs well with various sides. Consider serving with a light cucumber salad or pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast. Crusty bread is great for soaking up the delicious tomato juice. Additionally, you can serve these rolls alongside Ukrainian Supper(Borscht; Very Good) for a traditional feast.
Can I freeze holubtsi?
Absolutely! Holubtsi freeze well. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave as needed.
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).