Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

 

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: A Comfort Food Classic That Never Gets Old

If there’s one dish that brings together tradition, comfort, and hearty flavor, it’s stuffed cabbage rolls. From Eastern Europe to the Middle East, this beloved recipe has been passed down through generations and adapted by cultures around the world—and for good reason.

Tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory, seasoned filling of meat and rice, then simmered in a tangy tomato sauce—it’s the kind of home-cooked meal that feeds both the body and soul.

Whether you grew up eating them or are trying them for the first time, this simple recipe will show you how to make delicious, melt-in-your-mouth stuffed cabbage rolls right in your own kitchen.

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🌿 What Are Stuffed Cabbage Rolls?

Stuffed cabbage rolls (also known as golabki, holubtsi, or sarma, depending on the region) are made by wrapping blanched cabbage leaves around a filling—typically ground meat, rice, and seasonings—and cooking them slowly in a rich tomato sauce until tender and flavorful.

They’re a classic comfort food, easy to make in big batches, and even better the next day.

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 1 large head of green cabbage

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or pork (or a mix)

• 1/2 cup uncooked white rice

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 egg

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tsp paprika (optional)

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tbsp sugar

• 1 tbsp white vinegar or lemon juice

• 1/2 tsp salt

• Water or broth as needed (about 1/2 cup)

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👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prep the Cabbage

• Remove the core from the cabbage and gently peel off about 12–15 whole leaves.

• Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Blanch the cabbage leaves for about 2–3 minutes, or until soft and pliable. Drain and let cool.

2. Make the Filling

• In a large bowl, mix the ground meat, uncooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, egg, and seasonings.

• Mix until just combined—don’t overwork it.

3. Assemble the Rolls

• Place a cabbage leaf on a flat surface. Add 2–3 tablespoons of filling near the stem end.

• Fold the sides over the filling, then roll up tightly like a burrito.

• Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

4. Make the Sauce

• In a bowl, whisk together crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, vinegar/lemon juice, and salt.

• Add water or broth as needed to thin the sauce slightly.

5. Cook the Rolls

• In a large baking dish or Dutch oven, spoon some sauce on the bottom.

• Place cabbage rolls seam-side down in a single layer.

• Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls.

• Cover tightly with foil or a lid.

6. Bake or Simmer

• Oven method: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1.5 to 2 hours.

• Stovetop method: Simmer on low heat, covered, for about 1.5 hours.

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🥄 Serving Suggestions

• Serve with mashed potatoes, sour cream, crusty bread, or a side salad.

• Sprinkle with fresh parsley or a bit of grated cheese for extra flavor.

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🔁 Variations

• Vegetarian: Swap meat for lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based ground alternative.

• Low-carb: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.

• Spicy: Add chili flakes or a bit of harissa to the sauce for a kick.

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🧊 Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze cooked cabbage rolls in sauce for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight and warm in the oven.

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📝 Final Thoughts

Stuffed cabbage rolls are the ultimate make-ahead meal: comforting, filling, and rich in flavor. They’re the kind of dish that reminds you of family dinners, holiday gatherings, or your grandmother’s kitchen.

So if you’re craving something warm, nostalgic, and made with love, this recipe is your answer. Give it a try—and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new favorite in your home.