Volie'S Cabbage Rolls
Savory cabbage rolls filled with seasoned beef, rice, and vegetables, simmered in tomato juice for a hearty, comforting meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the beef, beaten egg, chopped onion, crushed garlic, raw instant rice, crushed drained tomatoes, salt, pepper, and chili powder together in a bowl.
- Prepare the cabbage leaves by removing core and blanching until wilted.
- Place some of the meat mixture in each cabbage leaf and roll up tightly.
- Secure each roll with a toothpick to keep them closed.
- Arrange the rolls in a large Dutch oven.
- Pour the tomato juice over the cabbage rolls and sprinkle with chili powder.
- Bring to a gentle boil and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also add finely chopped bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition and sweetness. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the chili powder or add some hot sauce to the meat mixture. To save time, use pre-cooked rice instead of raw, but adjust the liquid in the recipe accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
These cabbage rolls are delicious served with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley. They pair beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside mashed potatoes or rice. Browse more American recipes for additional side dishes that complement this comforting dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual rolls for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Volie'S Cabbage Rolls contains roughly 769 calories, with 14g protein, 146g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (30% of the Daily Value), calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2056mg per serving (89% 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 the lean hamburger meat with ground turkey, chicken, or even a mixture of meats for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the meat is well-seasoned to maintain the dish's deliciousness.
How do I prevent the cabbage leaves from tearing?
To keep the cabbage leaves intact, make sure to blanch them just until they are pliable and not overly cooked. Removing the core before blanching also helps separate the leaves more easily. If they still tear, you can patch them with a smaller piece of leaf.
Can I make these cabbage rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze them uncooked; just ensure they're tightly wrapped. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and follow the cooking instructions.
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).