*Stuffed Cabbage With Lemon Sauce
Juicy stuffed cabbage rolls with savory meat and rice filling, simmered in buttery lemon-infused broth, perfect for comforting family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place cabbage in a pot filled with boiling water and boil for 10 minutes. Separate the leaves.
- Combine hamburger, rice, grated onion, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley (if using).
- Place about 2 tablespoons of filling in each cabbage leaf.
- Loosely fold over the sides and roll up the cabbage leaves to enclose the filling.
- Place the cabbage rolls into a large pot, keeping them tight together.
- Dot with butter or margarine and pour the hot water into the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding spices like paprika or garlic powder to the filling. For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey for hamburger. If you prefer a vegetarian option, use cooked lentils or quinoa instead of meat and rice. Make sure to boil the cabbage leaves until they're pliable to avoid tearing when rolling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed cabbage hot, drizzled with a tangy lemon sauce for a burst of freshness. Pair it with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. This dish also goes well with Kapusniak - Sauerkraut Soup for a flavorful, hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover stuffed cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place them in a pot with some broth or water to keep them moist, cover, and heat on low until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of *Stuffed Cabbage With Lemon Sauce contains roughly 458 calories, with 8g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value), protein (15% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1669mg per serving (73% 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 freeze stuffed cabbage rolls?
Yes, stuffed cabbage rolls can be frozen. After cooking, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What can I use instead of rice in the filling?
If you're looking for alternatives to rice, consider using cauliflower rice for a low-carb option or quinoa for added protein and texture. You can also use couscous or bulgur wheat, as they cook quickly and absorb flavors well.
How do I know when the stuffed cabbage is done cooking?
The stuffed cabbage is done when the meat is no longer pink and the rice is tender. If you're unsure, check the largest roll by cutting it in half. It should be fully cooked, and the flavors will have melded beautifully throughout the 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).