Stuffed Cabbage Leaves
Stuffed cabbage leaves are a hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender cabbage wrapped around a savory mixture of ground veal, beef, rice, herbs, and onions. Baked in tomato sauce, this comforting classic suits family dinners and gatherings, offering a delightful blend of savory and tangy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground veal and ground beef in a skillet and sauté with grated onion in butter until lightly browned.
- Add cooked rice, chopped fresh dill, thyme, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the meat mixture and mix well.
- Place cabbage leaves in boiling water for 1 minute to soften.
- Drain the cabbage leaves and pat dry.
- Spoon meat mixture onto the center of each cabbage leaf.
- Fold the leaves over the filling in an envelope fashion and secure with toothpicks.
- Place the stuffed cabbage leaves in a greased shallow baking dish.
- Pour canned tomato sauce over the stuffed leaves.
- Cover and bake in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute ground veal and beef with ground turkey or chicken. If you want more flavor, add some garlic to the meat mixture. You can also use quinoa instead of rice for a nutritious twist. Ensure the cabbage leaves are well-drained after boiling to prevent excess water from making the dish soggy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed cabbage leaves with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for added creaminess. They pair wonderfully with a side of Lubee (Green Beans) or a fresh salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffed cabbage in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave them for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Cabbage Leaves contains roughly 624 calories, with 35g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (170% of the Daily Value), iron (96% of the Daily Value), and protein (69% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2025mg per serving (88% 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 stuffed cabbage leaves ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed cabbage leaves a day in advance. Simply assemble them and store in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of canned tomato sauce?
If you don't have canned tomato sauce, you can substitute it with crushed tomatoes or a homemade tomato sauce. Just ensure to season it well with herbs and spices to enhance the flavor.
Can I freeze stuffed cabbage leaves?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked stuffed cabbage leaves. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you're ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking.
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).