Cabbage rolls, also known as “golubtsi” in many Eastern European cuisines, are a dish steeped in tradition and timeless appeal. For centuries, families have gathered around the table to enjoy these hearty and comforting parcels of meat, rice, and vegetables, all lovingly wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday feast, a Sunday dinner, or simply a cozy meal, cabbage rolls deliver on flavor and nostalgia.
This classic beef and pork cabbage roll recipe stays true to its roots while offering a modern twist to ensure perfect results every time. Made with a combination of ground beef and pork, seasoned rice, and aromatic vegetables, these rolls are a perfect balance of taste and texture. The accompanying tomato sauce enhances the savory flavors with a subtle sweetness, making every bite a delight.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- Ground beef: 600 g
- Ground pork: 600 g
- Rice: 150 g
- Onion (finely chopped): 150 g
- Garlic (minced): 4 cloves
- Fresh parsley (chopped): as desired
- Seasoning for ground meat: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: ½ tsp
- Salt: 2 tsp
For the Sauce:
- Tomatoes, chopped (or canned, with juice): 800 ml
- Carrots (grated): 120 g
- Onion (finely chopped): 150 g
- Sugar: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: ½ tsp
- Water: 400 ml
Additional:
- Cabbage leaves: about 12-15 large leaves (1 large head of cabbage)
- Vegetable oil: 1 tbsp (for sautéing)
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Protein: 24 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fat: 17 g
- Fiber: 3 g
Servings
This recipe serves 6–8 people, depending on portion sizes.
Steps to Prepare
1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Carefully remove the outer leaves of the cabbage, ensuring they remain intact.
- Blanch the cabbage leaves in boiling water for 2–3 minutes until they are pliable. Set aside to cool.
2. Cook the Rice
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Cook the rice in boiling water for 8–10 minutes until partially cooked (it will finish cooking inside the rolls). Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, partially cooked rice, onion, garlic, parsley, seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until all ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the chopped onions and grated carrots until softened (about 5 minutes). Reserve half for the sauce and let the rest cool slightly before adding to the filling mixture.
5. Prepare the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the chopped tomatoes (or canned tomatoes), the reserved sautéed onions and carrots, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the water and let the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Assemble the Rolls
- Lay one cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Trim the thick stem at the base if needed.
- Place about 2–3 tablespoons of filling in the center of the leaf. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll it up tightly like a burrito.
- Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
7. Cook the Cabbage Rolls
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of a large baking dish.
- Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish, ensuring they are snug but not overcrowded.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls, covering them completely.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove the foil during the last 15 minutes to let the rolls brown slightly on top.
Why This Recipe is Timeless
Cabbage rolls have remained a beloved dish across generations for good reason. They are versatile, economical, and perfect for feeding a crowd. The combination of tender cabbage, savory filling, and rich tomato sauce creates a comforting, homestyle meal that feels both familiar and special. This dish is also highly adaptable; you can use different types of meat, grains, or even create a vegetarian version with lentils or mushrooms.
Cabbage rolls are steeped in tradition, often passed down in families with slight variations. They symbolize warmth, care, and the joy of sharing a hearty meal with loved ones.
Tips for Making Perfect Cabbage Rolls
- Choose the Right Cabbage: Savoy cabbage is an excellent choice as it’s more tender and easier to roll, but regular green cabbage works just as well.
- Blanch with Care: Don’t overcook the cabbage leaves during blanching; they should be pliable but not mushy.
- Adjust the Filling: Feel free to add grated vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the filling for added nutrition and flavor.
- Prevent Sticking: Place a layer of leftover cabbage leaves or parchment paper at the bottom of the baking dish to prevent the rolls from sticking.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store cooked cabbage rolls in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Cabbage rolls freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container and cover with sauce. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, or use a microwave for smaller portions.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of meat?
A: Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb for a unique flavor twist.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Replace the meat with cooked lentils, finely chopped mushrooms, or a mixture of grated vegetables.
Q: What can I serve with cabbage rolls?
A: Cabbage rolls are often served with sour cream, crusty bread, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Classic beef and pork cabbage rolls are a labor of love, but the results are well worth the effort. Each roll bursts with the savory goodness of seasoned meat and rice, enveloped in tender cabbage and bathed in a flavorful tomato sauce. This recipe celebrates the art of slow-cooking and the joy of sharing a meal steeped in history and tradition.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner looking to impress your family, these cabbage rolls are sure to delight. They freeze well, reheat beautifully, and taste even better the next day, making them a perfect make-ahead dish. Gather your loved ones and enjoy this timeless comfort food together!