These Crispy Chinese Cabbage Rolls are a delightful twist on traditional cabbage rolls, featuring a savory filling of potatoes, onions, and peppers wrapped in softened cabbage leaves and fried to golden perfection. Perfect as an appetizer or a main dish, these rolls are sure to impress with their crunchy exterior and flavorful filling.
Preparation Time
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 1 Chinese cabbage
- 4 potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 2 chili peppers, finely chopped
- 2 bell peppers, diced
- 1 tablespoon of salt, plus extra for seasoning
- 3 eggs
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 100 grams (1 cup) breadcrumbs
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
Prepare the Cabbage:
- Separate the leaves of the Chinese cabbage. Trim the hard part at the base of each leaf. Sprinkle a little salt over the leaves and set them aside for 30 minutes to soften. This makes them pliable for wrapping.
Cook the Potatoes:
- Place the cubed potatoes in a pot, fill with water, cover with a lid, and cook until almost done but still firm.
Sauté Vegetables:
- While the potatoes are cooking, heat some olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the red onion until translucent.
- Add the chopped chili peppers and bell peppers to the onions. Sauté until the peppers are soft.
Combine Ingredients:
- Once the potatoes are nearly cooked, drain them and add to the pan with the onions and peppers. Add a tablespoon of salt and mix all ingredients thoroughly.
Wrap the Rolls:
- Lay out a cabbage leaf on a flat surface. Place a portion of the vegetable mixture onto the leaf. Fold in the sides and roll up the leaf to encase the filling. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
Prepare for Frying:
- In a shallow dish, beat the eggs with the flour until well combined. Place the breadcrumbs in another shallow dish.
- Dip each cabbage roll first in the egg mixture, then coat with breadcrumbs.
Fry the Rolls:
- Heat a good amount of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Place the coated rolls in the pan and fry until golden brown on all sides, turning as needed.
Serve:
- Remove the rolls from the pan and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve hot and enjoy the crunchy exterior and savory, vegetable-packed interior of these delightful cabbage rolls.
Tips
- Serving Suggestions: These cabbage rolls can be served with a side of sour cream or a tangy dipping sauce for extra flavor.
- Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients like minced meat, rice, or different spices to the filling to suit your taste preferences.
Nutritional Benefits
- Vegetable-Rich: These rolls are packed with vegetables, providing vitamins and minerals.
- Balanced: Combining potatoes and eggs offers a good balance of carbohydrates and protein.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is vegetarian. For a vegan version, substitute the eggs with a vegan egg replacer.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Storage
- Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Flavorful: The combination of crunchy exterior and savory filling is irresistible.
- Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or main course.
- Easy to Customize: Adapt the filling to include your favorite ingredients and spices.
Conclusion
Enjoy these Crispy Chinese Cabbage Rolls as a versatile and delicious addition to your meal repertoire. Whether served as a snack or a main dish, their crunchy texture and savory filling will delight your taste buds. Bon appétit!