My Friend Natalie Grossiner'S Stuffed Cabbage
A hearty stuffed cabbage dish with savory beef and rice filling, flavored with tomatoes, honey, lemon, and raisins—perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the cabbage in a kettle and add boiling water to cover. Let soak for 15 minutes and then drain.
- Carefully remove 12 large leaves from the cabbage, or 18 if the leaves are too small.
- Heat the fat in a large deep saucepan or casserole.
- Add sliced onions and cook, stirring, until golden brown.
- Add canned tomatoes, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and the beef bones. Simmer for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For easier leaf removal, freeze the cabbage overnight and thaw it before use. If you don't have ground beef, try substituting with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the filling for extra depth or pairing the dish with a side of Spanish Rice In A Pot for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed cabbage with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad. For a comforting meal, consider serving it alongside Hungarian Beef And Noodles, which offers a delightful contrast to the cabbage.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover stuffed cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the cabbage in a covered dish and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, checking for warmth.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Friend Natalie Grossiner'S Stuffed Cabbage contains roughly 1595 calories, with 5g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 155g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1360mg per serving (59% 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 stuffed cabbage ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed cabbage and assemble it a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply add the cooking liquid and bake as directed, adjusting the cooking time if needed.
What can I use instead of raisins in this recipe?
If you're not a fan of raisins, try using chopped dried apricots or cranberries for a similar sweetness and texture. You can also omit them entirely for a more savory flavor profile or substitute with sunflower seeds for added crunch.
How do I know when the stuffed cabbage is cooked through?
The stuffed cabbage is cooked through when the leaves are tender, and the filling reaches an internal temperature of at least 160°F. You can check by inserting a meat thermometer into the center. The sauce should be bubbling, and the flavors well combined.
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).