Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: A Comforting Classic with Global Flavors

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a beloved dish across many cultures, known for their hearty filling and tender leaves. Whether you call them golabki (Poland), sarma (Balkans), or simply stuffed cabbage, this dish is a delicious way to enjoy a comforting meal. Below, we’ll explore three variations—traditional, vegetarian, and a modern twist—along with step-by-step instructions, cooking times, and temperatures.

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1. Traditional Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Golabki)

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 1 large head green cabbage (about 3 lbs)
• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp dried thyme

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 bay leaf

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves:

• Bring a large pot of water to boil. Core the cabbage and place it in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes, peeling off softened leaves as you go.
• Drain and let cool. Trim the thick ribs from the leaves for easier rolling.

2. Make the Filling:

• In a bowl, mix ground meat, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme until well combined.

3. Assemble the Rolls:

• Place 2-3 tbsp of filling on each cabbage leaf. Fold the sides inward, then roll tightly.

4. Prepare the Sauce:

• In a bowl, whisk together tomato sauce, broth, brown sugar, vinegar, and bay leaf.

5. Cook the Rolls:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread a thin layer of sauce in a baking dish. Arrange rolls seam-side down.
• Pour remaining sauce over the rolls. Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour 15 minutes.
• Uncover and bake for 15 more minutes to thicken the sauce.

Serving Suggestion: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

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2. Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 1 large head green or savoy cabbage
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
• 1 can (15 oz) lentils, drained
• 1 carrot, grated
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan: 1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water)
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 cups marinara sauce
• ½ cup vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp dried oregano

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves:

• Follow the same method as above (boil, peel, trim).

2. Make the Filling:

• In a bowl, combine quinoa, lentils, carrot, onion, garlic, egg, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Assemble the Rolls:

• Place 2 tbsp filling on each leaf, roll tightly, and place in a baking dish.

4. Prepare the Sauce:

• Mix marinara, broth, honey, and oregano. Pour over rolls.

5. Bake:

• Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes.
• Uncover and bake 15 more minutes.

Serving Suggestion: Top with fresh dill and a dollop of Greek yogurt (or vegan sour cream).

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3. Modern Twist: Asian-Inspired Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 1 large Napa cabbage
• 1 lb ground chicken or turkey
• ½ cup cooked jasmine rice
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 egg

For the Sauce:

• ½ cup hoisin sauce
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sriracha (optional)
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cabbage:

• Blanch Napa cabbage leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain.

2. Make the Filling:

• Mix ground chicken, rice, green onions, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and egg.

3. Roll & Cook:

• Place filling in leaves, roll, and arrange in a skillet.
• Whisk sauce ingredients, pour over rolls, and simmer covered on low heat for 30 minutes.

Serving Suggestion: Garnish with sesame seeds and cilantro.

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Final Tips for Perfect Cabbage Rolls

• Cabbage Prep: Freezing the cabbage overnight makes leaves easier to peel.
• Sauce Variations: Try a creamy mushroom sauce or a spicy harissa-tomato blend.
• Make-Ahead: Assemble rolls a day ahead and refrigerate before baking.

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a versatile, satisfying dish that adapts to any cuisine. Whether you stick with tradition or experiment with new flavors, this meal is sure to impress. Enjoy