Cabbage rolls are a traditional dish that brings together the flavors of savory meat, creamy sauce, and tender cabbage. In this recipe, we combine minced meat, bacon, and cheese wrapped in soft, blanched cabbage leaves, then bake them in a delicious, creamy mustard sauce. The richness of the cheese cream and sweet cooking cream perfectly complements the cabbage and meat, while the pickled cucumbers and dill add a burst of tanginess. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, these cabbage rolls are hearty, flavorful, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 2 hours
- Total time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 1 whole cabbage
- 1.5 kg minced meat
- 15 g salt
- 7 g black pepper
- 2 eggs
- 100 g hard cheese, grated
- 350 g bacon, sliced
For the Sauce:
- 100 g cheese cream
- 120 g sweet cooking cream
- 7 g dill, chopped
- 5 g salt
- 70 g pickled cucumbers, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 20 g mustard
Directions
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Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) to prepare for baking the cabbage rolls.
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Prepare the Cabbage:
- Core the cabbage and blanch it in boiling water for a few minutes until the leaves are tender and pliable. This will make them easier to roll.
- Once the cabbage leaves are soft, carefully separate them and set them aside to cool.
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Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the minced meat with salt, pepper, and eggs. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Stir in the grated hard cheese for an added richness and flavor.
- Form the mixture into individual rolls, wrapping each roll tightly in a cabbage leaf. Be sure to tuck in the sides as you roll to keep the filling secure.
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Assemble the Dish:
- Lay the sliced bacon on the bottom of a baking dish to add flavor and moisture during baking.
- Arrange the cabbage rolls on top of the bacon, placing them closely together to ensure even cooking.
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Prepare the Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, combine the cheese cream, sweet cooking cream, chopped dill, salt, diced pickled cucumbers, minced garlic, and mustard. Mix well until smooth.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the cabbage rolls, ensuring each roll is coated with the creamy mixture.
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Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil or a lid to retain moisture while baking.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 2 hours, or until the cabbage rolls are tender and the filling is fully cooked through.
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Serve:
- After baking, let the rolls cool slightly before serving.
- Enjoy these flavorful cabbage rolls as a hearty main dish with a side of bread or a fresh salad.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories per serving: 350 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Calcium: 150mg
These cabbage rolls are a good source of protein and healthy fats from the meat and cheese, while the pickled cucumbers and dill provide a touch of antioxidants and vitamins. The cabbage offers a dose of fiber, making this a filling and nutritious meal.
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Cabbage rolls have a long history, with variations found in many cuisines across Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and even parts of Asia. They are often associated with hearty, comfort food that brings together simple, readily available ingredients. In countries like Poland, Russia, Ukraine, and Turkey, cabbage rolls (or “golabki”) have been a traditional dish for centuries. The idea of stuffing cabbage leaves with a mixture of meat and rice is thought to have originated in the Byzantine Empire, where it was a practical way to stretch limited resources into a filling meal.
The recipe spread throughout Europe, with regional variations incorporating different spices, fillings, and sauces. In some countries, such as the United States, cabbage rolls became popular among immigrants who brought their culinary traditions with them. Today, cabbage rolls remain a staple comfort food, known for their rich flavors and satisfying nature. The addition of creamy sauces and tangy pickles to this recipe adds a modern twist, enhancing the dish’s depth and making it a crowd-pleaser for today’s tables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it combines the best of savory comfort food with a creamy, tangy sauce. The tender cabbage wraps perfectly around the flavorful minced meat filling, while the crispy bacon adds an extra layer of richness. The creamy mustard sauce ties everything together, making every bite an indulgent treat. It’s an easy, satisfying meal that can be prepared in advance and is perfect for feeding a crowd or a family. This dish is hearty, comforting, and perfect for any occasion.
Health Benefits of Cabbage Rolls
Cabbage rolls offer a range of health benefits. Cabbage itself is a low-calorie vegetable rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, which help support immune health and promote digestion. The minced meat provides a source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Cheese and cream add calcium, which is vital for strong bones and teeth. The pickled cucumbers and dill not only enhance the flavor but also provide probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. Overall, cabbage rolls make for a balanced, nutrient-dense meal that combines vegetables, protein, and healthy fats.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Serve these cabbage rolls with a light side salad, such as a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, to balance the richness of the dish.
- Bread: Pair with a crusty loaf of bread or garlic bread for dipping into the sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add some roasted carrots, potatoes, or parsnips to complement the savory flavors of the rolls.
- Sour Cream: For added richness and tang, serve the cabbage rolls with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on top.
Tips
- Make sure to blanch the cabbage leaves well to ensure they’re soft and pliable for rolling. If you don’t blanch them properly, the leaves may tear or be difficult to fold.
- If you want to make this recipe ahead of time, you can assemble the cabbage rolls and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- To ensure the filling stays secure inside the rolls, be sure to tightly roll up the cabbage leaves and tuck in the sides as you go.
- You can experiment with different herbs and spices in the filling, such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika, to suit your taste.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Version: Use lentils, mushrooms, or rice as a filling instead of meat for a delicious vegetarian alternative. You can also add some crumbled feta cheese for added flavor.
- Spicy Version: Add some chili flakes or paprika to the meat filling or the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Rice and Meat Combo: Mix rice with the minced meat for an added texture and to stretch the filling even further.
- Smoked Meat: Use smoked sausage or ham for an added depth of flavor in the meat filling.
Conclusion
These cabbage rolls with creamy sauce are a comforting and hearty meal that everyone will love. With their rich flavors, satisfying texture, and the perfect combination of savory meat, creamy cheese, and tangy pickles, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Whether served as a main dish for dinner or as a special treat for guests, these cabbage rolls are a great addition to any table. Easy to make, yet full of flavor, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
5 Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use a different type of meat in the cabbage rolls? Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of vegetables for a lighter version.
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Can I prepare the cabbage rolls in advance? Yes, you can assemble the cabbage rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
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Can I freeze the cabbage rolls? Yes, you can freeze the assembled rolls. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking process.
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What can I use instead of pickled cucumbers? If you don’t like pickled cucumbers, you can substitute them with fresh cucumbers or use a splash of vinegar for tanginess.
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How can I make the sauce thicker? If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to the cream mixture and cook it for a few extra minutes.