This bacon-wrapped cabbage roll recipe is a delicious twist on a traditional dish. It features tender cabbage leaves stuffed with juicy, seasoned minced meat, wrapped in crispy bacon, and baked to perfection. To enhance the dish, we pair it with a creamy dill sauce made with pickled cucumbers, garlic, and mustard for a tangy, rich finish. If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal with a gourmet touch, this recipe is a must-try!
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 2 hours
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Rolls
- Cabbage: 1 head
- Minced meat: 1.5 kg
- Salt: 15 g
- Black pepper: 7 g
- Eggs: 2
- Hard cheese: 100 g, grated
- Bacon: 350 g, sliced
- Tray: Diameter 25 cm
For the Sauce
- Cheese cream: 100 g
- Sweet cooking cream: 120 g
- Dill: 7 g, chopped
- Salt: 5 g
- Pickled cucumbers: 70 g, finely chopped
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Mustard: 20 g
Instructions
Prepare the Cabbage
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 160°C (320°F).
- Blanch the Cabbage: Remove the core from the cabbage and blanch the whole head in boiling water for about 10 minutes to soften the leaves.
- Separate the Leaves: Carefully peel the cabbage leaves apart and set them aside to cool.
Prepare the Filling
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine minced meat, salt, black pepper, eggs, and grated cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
Roll the Cabbage
- Stuff the Leaves: Take a cabbage leaf, place a portion of the meat mixture in the center, and roll tightly, folding in the sides to enclose the filling.
- Repeat: Continue with the remaining cabbage leaves and meat mixture.
Assemble the Dish
- Line the Tray: Arrange bacon slices on the bottom of a 25 cm baking tray to create a flavorful base.
- Arrange Rolls: Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a circular pattern inside the tray.
- Cover with More Bacon: Lay additional bacon slices on top of the rolls for added richness.
Bake
- Cover and Bake: Cover the tray with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
Prepare the Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, mix cheese cream, sweet cooking cream, chopped dill, salt, finely chopped pickled cucumbers, minced garlic, and mustard.
- Heat and Stir: Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
Serve
- Plate and Garnish: Let the cabbage rolls cool slightly, then serve warm, drizzled with the creamy sauce.
- Optional Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh dill for extra flavor.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Calcium: 150mg
- Iron: 4mg
The Origins and Popularity of Cabbage Rolls
Cabbage rolls are a classic dish enjoyed across various cultures. Their origins can be traced back to Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, where different regions have unique versions of the dish.
In countries like Poland, Hungary, and Romania, cabbage rolls are traditionally made with ground pork or beef and rice, often cooked in a tomato-based sauce. In Scandinavian cuisine, they are sometimes served with cream-based sauces similar to this recipe. Middle Eastern variations, such as Malfoof (stuffed cabbage in Lebanon and Syria), incorporate warm spices and lamb.
The adaptability and comforting nature of cabbage rolls have made them a staple in many households. Wrapping the filling in cabbage leaves adds a nutritious, low-carb alternative to pasta or pastry while delivering a satisfying, hearty dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Flavorful: The bacon adds a smoky depth, while the meat filling is juicy and cheesy.
- Perfectly Tender: Baking the rolls for 2 hours at a low temperature makes them incredibly soft.
- Creamy Sauce: The dill and pickled cucumbers give the sauce a fresh, tangy twist, balancing the richness of the dish.
- Great for Meal Prep: These cabbage rolls store well and taste even better the next day!
Health Benefits of Cabbage Rolls
- High in Protein: The minced meat and eggs provide an excellent source of lean protein.
- Rich in Nutrients: Cabbage is packed with vitamins C and K, supporting immune function and bone health.
- Lower in Carbs: Unlike traditional cabbage rolls made with rice, this version is low-carb and keto-friendly.
- Gut-Friendly: The pickled cucumbers and garlic in the sauce contain probiotics and antioxidants that support digestion.
Serving Suggestions
- Side of Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with buttery mashed potatoes.
- Steamed Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed broccoli, asparagus, or carrots for a balanced meal.
- Crispy Bread: Enjoy with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Fresh Salad: A light cucumber or tomato salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Tips
- Don’t Overfill the Rolls: Using too much filling can cause them to burst open while baking.
- Use Savoy Cabbage for Softer Rolls: Savoy cabbage leaves are more flexible and tender than regular cabbage.
- For a Crispier Finish: Remove the foil in the last 20 minutes to allow the bacon to crisp up.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the cabbage rolls a day in advance and store them in the fridge before baking.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or chili powder to the meat filling.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix mozzarella or feta cheese into the meat mixture for an extra cheesy bite.
- Tomato-Based Sauce: Instead of the creamy sauce, serve with a rich tomato and garlic sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the minced meat with a mixture of lentils, mushrooms, and quinoa.
Conclusion
This Bacon-Wrapped Cabbage Roll Recipe is a perfect blend of traditional flavors with a modern twist. The crispy bacon, tender cabbage, and creamy sauce make it a comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prep, or special gathering, these savory rolls are sure to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I freeze cabbage rolls before baking?
A: Yes! Arrange them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 30 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of pork and beef all work well.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes! The sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
Try this delicious, hearty, and satisfying dish today—your taste buds will thank you! 🥬🥓🥄