Holupki - Stuffed Cabbage
Holupki, or stuffed cabbage rolls, feature seasoned meat and rice wrapped in tender cabbage leaves, simmered in a savory tomato-sauerkraut broth—comforting and flavorful for hearty meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the chopped small onion in hot oil.
- Add ground beef, ground pork, cooked rice, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Cook cabbage leaves in boiling water until soft enough to roll.
- Let the cabbage leaves cool, then place a heaping tablespoon of meat mixture on each leaf, roll up, and tuck in sides.
- Layer half of the sauerkraut in the bottom of a saucepan, then add the cabbage rolls in layers, followed by the remaining sauerkraut.
- Pour the tomato soup over the layers and add enough water to cover.
- Cook slowly in a covered saucepan for about 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of spices like paprika or garlic powder in the meat mixture. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rice can be substituted for the cooked rice. You can also experiment with ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork for a lighter option. Cabbage Rolls With Beef are a classic variation if you want to explore different flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed cabbage hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley for added color and flavor. A dollop of sour cream on top can complement the dish nicely. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side of mashed potatoes. For a complete meal, consider serving with a light salad or roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed cabbage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the rolls in a saucepan over medium heat with a splash of water, cover, and steam until heated through. Alternatively, they can be reheated in the microwave for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holupki - Stuffed Cabbage contains roughly 415 calories, with 12g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2509mg per serving (109% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze stuffed cabbage before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the cabbage rolls before cooking. Arrange the rolled cabbage in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be cooked directly from frozen; just add extra cooking time.
What can I use instead of sauerkraut?
If you don't have sauerkraut, you can use shredded green cabbage or a mix of diced tomatoes and tomato sauce for moisture and flavor. This will change the taste slightly, but it will still create a delicious dish.
How long do I cook the cabbage rolls?
Cook the cabbage rolls slowly in a covered saucepan for about 1 hour, ensuring they are heated through and the flavors meld. If you prefer a softer texture, you can cook them a bit longer on low heat.
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).