Romanian Cabbage Rolls
Romanian cabbage rolls feature tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory rice and mushroom mixture, topped with cheeses. Perfect for comforting family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut off the core end of the cabbage and select 15 of the largest leaves.
- Set aside the remaining cabbage.
- In a large pot, cook the cabbage leaves for about 2 minutes in boiling salted water.
- Cook 4 to 5 leaves at a time for ease.
- Drain and let cool.
- Heat salad oil and margarine in a large frying pan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cook until fragrant.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook until well coated and softened.
- Stir in paprika and cook until mushrooms release juice and most of it evaporates.
- Add cooked rice and stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper, cook for 1 more minute.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded Jack cheese.
- Spoon the filling onto each cabbage leaf, tuck sides over, and roll to enclose.
- Place the rolled cabbage leaves seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of mushrooms, such as shiitake and cremini. If you can't find nappa cabbage, savoy cabbage is a great substitute. To save time, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and refrigerate it. Also, if you prefer a lighter version, you can use low-fat cheese or even skip the cheese entirely for a vegan option.
Serving Suggestions
These Romanian Cabbage Rolls are delicious served with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on top. For a complete meal, pair them with a fresh salad, such as a simple mixed greens salad or the New Zealand Salad Dressing for added zing. Consider serving with crusty bread to soak up any leftover juices for a hearty experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, covered, for a few minutes until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Romanian Cabbage Rolls contains roughly 1411 calories, with 16g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 109g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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. Once assembled, cover them tightly and refrigerate. They also freeze well; just ensure they are properly wrapped to avoid freezer burn. When ready to cook, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of Jack cheese?
If Jack cheese isn't available, you can substitute it with mozzarella for a mild flavor or cheddar for a sharper taste. For a dairy-free option, try using vegan cheese shreds that melt well. This recipe is also versatile enough to allow for different cheese combinations according to your preference.
How do I prevent the cabbage leaves from tearing?
To prevent tearing, make sure to blanch the cabbage leaves just until they are pliable, about 2 minutes. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut the leaves from the core, and handle them gently when rolling. If some leaves do tear, you can use them as extra layers in the baking dish.
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).