Stuffed Cabbage Rolls(Golabki)
Savory stuffed cabbage rolls feature tender cabbage leaves filled with seasoned meat and rice, simmered in a rich tomato sauce for a comforting and hearty meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the core out of the cabbage.
- Put the cabbage into a large kettle of boiling water over high heat.
- With tongs, remove leaves as they wilt, about 5 minutes.
- Drain the cabbage and let the leaves stand until cool enough to handle.
- Carefully cut out the thick center vein from each leaf.
- Chop the remaining cabbage and set aside.
- Saute the chopped onion in oil until translucent.
- Parboil the cabbage leaves as per directions.
- Mix ground chuck, ground pork, cooked rice, sautéed onion, salt, and pepper well.
- Fill each cabbage leaf with the meat mixture and roll. Secure each roll with a toothpick if needed.
- Line the bottom of a large pot with some chopped cabbage and place the cabbage rolls on top.
- Mix two cans of tomato soup with one can of water and pour over the rolls.
- Top with the remaining chopped cabbage.
- Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 1.5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding herbs like dill or parsley to the meat mixture. If cabbage leaves are too tough, try using savoy cabbage for a more tender option. For a vegetarian twist, substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms. Keep in mind that soaking rice beforehand can improve texture. Don't hesitate to adjust seasoning to taste, especially if using canned tomato soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed cabbage rolls with a dollop of sour cream on top for added creaminess. A side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad complements the dish well. For a heartier meal, pair with mashed potatoes or a serving of Hoppin' John (A Traditional New Years Special). A glass of white wine can also enhance the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual rolls on medium power until warm. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Cabbage Rolls(Golabki) contains roughly 642 calories, with 25g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (67% of the Daily Value) and protein (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1386mg per serving (60% 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 rolls in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls a day in advance. Assemble them and store in the refrigerator, then bake them the next day. This allows the flavors to meld together, making them even tastier.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you prefer, you can substitute tomato soup with crushed tomatoes or a homemade tomato sauce. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as canned soup often contains added salt and spices.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done cooking?
The cabbage rolls are done when the meat is cooked through and the cabbage leaves are tender. You can check by cutting one open to ensure there’s no pink in the meat and the rice is fully cooked.
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).