These German-Style Stuffed Cabbage Rolls offer a comforting taste of traditional Bavarian cuisine. Each roll is meticulously filled with a savory blend of rice, mushrooms, and herbs, enveloped in a tender cabbage leaf, creating a dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying. This recipe reflects the robust and hearty nature of German cooking, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or a fulfilling family dinner.
The combination of mild cabbage with the rich, earthy flavors of the filling provides a delightful contrast that’s further enhanced by the aromatic presence of caraway seeds and herbs of Provence. Served fresh from the oven, these cabbage rolls make for a visually appealing and delicious meal that brings a piece of German culinary tradition to your table.
Full Recipe:
- Ingredients:
- 1 cabbage
- 300 ml milk (1 1/2 cups)
- 500 ml water (2 cups)
- 2 onions, chopped
- Olive oil
- 320 grams mushrooms (2 cups), chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup rice
- Parsley, chopped
- Dried garlic
- Mint
- Dried pepper
- Herbs of Provence
- Caraway seeds
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil
- 600 ml water (3 cups)
- Directions:
- Prepare the cabbage by cutting out the top and removing any tough outer leaves.
- In a large pot, combine milk and water and bring to a boil. Add the cabbage, cover, and cook for 20 minutes.
- While the cabbage is cooking, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté onions until translucent.
- Add mushrooms to the pan and cook for 10-12 minutes. Stir in salt, soy sauce, and tomato paste, cooking for an additional minute.
- Stir in rice and remove from heat to cool.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Combine the cooled rice mixture with parsley, dried garlic, mint, dried pepper, herbs of Provence, and caraway seeds in a large bowl.
- Carefully peel the cabbage leaves, keeping them whole. Spoon the rice mixture onto each leaf and roll, tucking in the sides.
- Place the rolls in a baking dish.
- Mix tomato paste, olive oil, and water; pour over the cabbage rolls.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until tender.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour 35 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes | Kcal: 350 | Servings: 6
Nutritional Benefits
Cabbage is a low-calorie vegetable that is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, making it excellent for digestion and overall health. The inclusion of mushrooms adds a good source of protein and B vitamins, which are essential for the brain and immune system. The rice provides a comforting starchiness and energy, making this dish balanced and healthful.
Tips for Perfect Cabbage Rolls
- Softening the Leaves: Ensure the cabbage leaves are sufficiently softened to make them pliable for rolling without tearing. This can be achieved by proper blanching.
- Flavor Enhancement: For an even richer flavor, consider sautéing the rice mixture before stuffing the leaves. This enhances the depth of the flavors in the filling.
- Baking to Perfection: Baking the rolls covered allows them to steam and meld the flavors together. Uncovering at the end gives them a delightful outer texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cabbage rolls hot, topped with a drizzle of the cooking juices or a spoonful of sour cream. They pair wonderfully with a side of mashed potatoes, or for a lighter option, a crisp green salad. These rolls are also fantastic for meal prep as they reheat well and can be frozen for future use.
Make It Your Own
This recipe is highly customizable. Vegetarians might substitute the mushrooms for lentils or chopped nuts for added protein. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, incorporating a dash of paprika or cayenne pepper into the rice mixture can add a nice kick. And for a festive twist, adding cranberries or diced apples to the filling can introduce a subtle sweetness that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
Why They’re a Must-Try
The German-Style Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a testament to the comfort and simplicity that traditional recipes offer. They are not just meals but a story on a plate, full of culture, history, and a love for hearty, wholesome cooking. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, these cabbage rolls will undoubtedly leave everyone satisfied and impressed with your culinary prowess.