Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

By Muhammad Faizan

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium head of cabbage

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or half beef, half pork)

  • ½ cup uncooked rice (or brown rice for a healthier version)

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 egg

  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes

  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • 1 tsp dried dill (or 1 tbsp fresh dill)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cabbage:

  • Remove the core of the cabbage and place the whole head in a large pot of boiling water.

  • Boil for about 5–8 minutes until the outer leaves start to soften and separate easily.

  • Carefully remove leaves and set aside to cool.

2. Make the Filling:

  • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, uncooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, paprika, dill, salt, and pepper.

  • Mix well until evenly blended.

3. Assemble the Rolls:

  • Place 2–3 tablespoons of the meat mixture in the center of each cabbage leaf.

  • Fold in the sides and roll tightly (like a burrito).

4. Make the Sauce:

  • In a pan, heat olive oil, add tomato paste, and cook for a minute.

  • Add tomato sauce, a pinch of salt, pepper, and a little water if needed.

  • Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

5. Cook the Rolls:

  • Arrange cabbage rolls seam side down in a large pot or baking dish.

  • Pour tomato sauce over them, cover, and simmer on low heat for 45–60 minutes (or bake covered at 350°F / 175°C for 1 hour).

Servings:

Makes 6–8 rolls (serves 3–4 people)

Recipe Notes & Tips:

  • You can use cauliflower rice for a low-carb or diabetic-friendly version.

  • For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to the tomato sauce.

  • These rolls taste even better the next day — perfect for meal prep!

  • Add a little Greek yogurt or sour cream on top before serving for creaminess.

Nutritional Info (per roll – approx.):

  • Calories: ~190

  • Protein: 16 g

  • Carbs: 8 g

  • Fat: 10 g

  • Fiber: 2 g

Health Benefits:

✅ High in protein — supports muscle and energy
✅ Rich in vitamin C and fiber from cabbage
✅ Low in sugar — suitable for diabetics (use cauliflower rice)
✅ Supports heart and digestive health
✅ Great balance of carbs, fats, and protein

Q/A Section

Q1: Can I make it without rice?
✔️ Yes! Substitute rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa for a healthier option.

Q2: Can I freeze cabbage rolls?
✔️ Absolutely. Freeze cooked rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat with a bit of sauce.

Q3: Can I make it vegetarian?
✔️ Yes — replace meat with lentils or mashed chickpeas and follow the same steps.

Q4: What can I serve with this?
✔️ Pair with mashed potatoes, yogurt dip, or a light cucumber salad for a full meal.

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