Swedish Cabbage Rolls
Swedish cabbage rolls are comforting, savory dishes filled with seasoned ground beef and rice, wrapped in tender cabbage leaves, and topped with a flavorful tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine egg, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, chopped onion, and milk; mix well.
- Add ground beef and cooked rice; mix thoroughly.
- Immerse cabbage leaves in boiling water for 3 minutes or until limp.
- Split the heavy center vein of each leaf about 2.5 inches to make rolling easier.
- Place a portion of the meat mixture onto each cabbage leaf, roll up, and secure if needed.
- Arrange rolls in a baking dish.
- Mix condensed tomato soup with brown sugar and lemon juice, then pour over the cabbage rolls.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until heated through and bubbling.
Tips & Substitutions
For easier rolling, use cabbage leaves from a fresh head, as they are more pliable. If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can be a suitable substitute. For a twist on flavor, consider adding some herbs like dill or parsley to the meat mixture. You can also mix in other proteins or grains, like quinoa, for a variation. This recipe also works well with a variety of beef recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Swedish cabbage rolls with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables can balance the meal nicely. For a unique pairing, consider serving with Brazilian Black Beans And Rice to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Swedish Cabbage Rolls contains roughly 696 calories, with 24g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (48% of the Daily Value), iron (38% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1938mg per serving (84% 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 use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for the ground beef. Each will give a different flavor profile, allowing for customization based on your dietary preferences. Just ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly before serving.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make Swedish cabbage rolls vegetarian, replace the ground beef with a mixture of cooked lentils, mushrooms, and chopped vegetables. You can also use plant-based meat alternatives. Adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavors of your filling.
Can I freeze cabbage rolls?
Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked or cooked cabbage rolls. If freezing uncooked, arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can be cooked directly from frozen, adding extra time to the baking process.
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).