Stuffed Cabbage Leaves(Golabk)
Stuffed cabbage leaves filled with seasoned ground beef, rice, and herbs, then simmered in tomato sauce for a hearty, flavorful meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the whole head of cabbage in water for about 5 to 10 minutes until the leaves are a little limp.
- Remove the cabbage from boiling water and let it cool.
- Cut or pull off the leaves and chop up the remaining cabbage; set aside.
- Try to keep each leaf in one piece when removing.
- Mix ground beef, chopped onions, salt, pepper, cooked rice, egg, and dill well.
- Place a small amount of the mixture into each cabbage leaf and roll up securely.
- Set aside until all leaves are wrapped.
- Place the rest of the cabbage in a kettle, then put the stuffed cabbage rolls on top.
- Add 1 quart of tomato sauce and 1/2 cup of water to the kettle.
- Bring to a boil and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Alternatively, bake at 350°F for about 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For easier rolling, use cabbage leaves that are pliable; boiling them for 5-10 minutes helps. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or quinoa. You can also add spices like paprika or cumin to the filling for extra flavor. For a twist, try adding feta cheese to the mixture, which pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve stuffed cabbage leaves hot, drizzled with additional tomato sauce. They pair well with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a balanced meal. For an excellent complement, consider serving with Easy Moussaka or a refreshing cucumber yogurt salad. A dollop of sour cream on top adds a creamy touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat with a splash of tomato sauce or in the microwave until heated through. You can also freeze the stuffed rolls before cooking; just thaw and bake when ready.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Cabbage Leaves(Golabk) contains roughly 231 calories, with 9g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (128% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1273mg per serving (55% 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 in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed cabbage leaves a day ahead. Assemble them, then refrigerate until you're ready to cook. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for a convenient meal option. Just ensure to adjust cooking time slightly if they are cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of rice in the filling?
If you're looking to replace rice, try using quinoa or couscous for a different texture and flavor. You could also use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Each of these alternatives will provide a unique twist to your stuffed cabbage while maintaining its deliciousness.
How do I know when the stuffed cabbage is done?
The stuffed cabbage is done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F if you're using a meat thermometer. Alternatively, they should be tender and the cabbage leaves should be soft. The sauce should be bubbling, and the flavors will have melded beautifully after simmering or 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).