Uncut Stuffed Cabbage
Uncut Stuffed Cabbage features tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and seasonings, simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This hearty dish offers comforting flavors, perfect for family dinners or special occasions, showcasing classic Eastern European culinary traditions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the rice until tender.
- Remove leaves from the cabbage head.
- Immerse the cabbage leaves in hot water until soft.
- Wipe the leaves dry.
- Mix ground hamburger and milk; add salt, pepper, cooked rice, and brown sugar.
- Make small rolls of the meat mixture.
- Wrap each meat roll in a cabbage leaf.
- Secure each roll with a toothpick.
- Pack the cabbage rolls in a kettle or large pot.
- Cover the rolls with a large can of cooked tomatoes.
- Cook covered over slow heat for about 2 hours until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or oregano to the meat mixture. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rice can be substituted for freshly cooked. Using a mix of ground meats, such as beef and pork, can enhance the taste. Make sure to fully immerse the cabbage in hot water until the leaves are pliable, ensuring easier rolling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the uncut stuffed cabbage with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. A light salad can balance the richness of the dish. For an international twist, pair it with Slovenian Cabbage And Noodles for a hearty meal that celebrates cabbage in various forms.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed cabbage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the rolls in a baking dish with a splash of water, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. They can also be reheated in the microwave for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Uncut Stuffed Cabbage contains roughly 695 calories, with 21g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1538mg per serving (67% 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 for the filling?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you prefer a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as lean meats may cook faster.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the cabbage rolls and place them in the pot with the tomatoes a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then cook them the next day. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the taste.
What can I do if I have too many cabbage leaves?
Extra cabbage leaves can be used to make a delicious side dish. Simply sauté them with garlic and olive oil, or use them to make a refreshing salad. Alternatively, you can freeze any leftover leaves for future use in soups or stir-fries.
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).