Hungarian Cabbage Roll
Hungarian cabbage rolls feature tender cabbage leaves filled with seasoned ground beef and rice, baked in a flavorful tomato and sauerkraut sauce—comforting and hearty for any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove outside leaves of cabbage enough to make approximately 10 rolls.
- Blanch cabbage leaves in boiling water until pliable.
- Drain the cabbage leaves.
- Mix beaten eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, paprika, and pepper.
- Roll approximately 1/2 to 2/3 cup of meat filling in each cabbage leaf and tuck in ends to seal.
- Mix uncooked rice, sauerkraut, chopped tomatoes, and tomato soup.
- Place 1/4 of the mixture in the bottom of a Dutch oven.
- Lay the cabbage rolls on top of the mixture.
- Cover the rolls with the remaining tomato mixture.
- Pour chicken broth over the top.
- Cover and cook on the stove or in the oven for 2 hours.
- Lift out the cabbage rolls and place on a plate or shallow casserole.
- Top with the sauce from the pot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute the ground beef with a mix of lentils and mushrooms. The rice can also be replaced with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist. Always ensure to finely chop the garlic for better distribution of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cabbage rolls hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. They pair beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Consider serving them alongside a side of savory rice for a comforting dinner that will please the whole family.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cabbage rolls 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 chicken broth, cover with foil, and heat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. They can also be reheated in the microwave for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hungarian Cabbage Roll contains roughly 628 calories, with 20g protein, 122g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (73% of the Daily Value), iron (58% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2520mg per serving (110% 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 these cabbage rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cabbage rolls a day in advance. Assemble them, store in the refrigerator, and then cook them the next day. This allows the flavors to meld, resulting in even tastier rolls.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is a great substitute for chicken broth. You can also use beef broth for a heartier flavor. Just ensure that whatever broth you choose complements the dish.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done?
The cabbage rolls are done when the meat is fully cooked and the rice is tender. If using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 160°F. The sauce should be bubbling, indicating they are heated through.
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).