Yabrak Malfoof(Cabbage Rolls)
Yabrak Malfoof features tender cabbage leaves stuffed with seasoned ground lamb and rice, simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce. This hearty dish offers a delightful blend of savory, spiced flavors, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions craving Middle Eastern comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Core the cabbage and submerge it into salted boiling water.
- While boiling, loosen each cabbage leaf with a fork and when slightly tender, remove.
- If the leaves are too large, trim the heavy vein and cut them in halves or thirds.
- In a bowl, combine rice, ground lamb, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and allspice.
- Place a spoonful of the mixture on each cabbage leaf, fold and roll up to enclose the filling.
- Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls in a pot, then pour tomato sauce and canned tomatoes over them.
- Simmer on low heat for about 1 hour until the filling is cooked through and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, consider using a mix of ground lamb and ground turkey for a lighter option. If you prefer not to use rice, try substituting with quinoa or couscous for a different texture. Make sure to season the filling generously with spices, as the cabbage can absorb some of the flavors while cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Yabrak Malfoof is delicious served with a side of yogurt for a cooling contrast. Consider pairing it with a simple salad or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a heartier meal, serve alongside Hoppin John Soup to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Yabrak Malfoof can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the rolls in a pot with a splash of water or sauce, cover, and warm on low heat until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Yabrak Malfoof(Cabbage Rolls) contains roughly 562 calories, with 43g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (117% of the Daily Value), protein (85% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 536mg per serving (23% 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 lamb with ground beef or turkey for a lighter option. Each meat will impart a slightly different flavor, so adjust your seasonings accordingly to enhance the taste.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground lamb with a mixture of cooked lentils and finely chopped vegetables. You can also use a plant-based meat substitute to maintain a similar texture.
Can I freeze Yabrak Malfoof?
Absolutely! You can freeze unwrapped cabbage rolls before cooking or freeze leftovers after they've been cooked. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then cook as instructed.
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).