Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls

• 1 head of cabbage
• 500 g ground meat (beef, pork, or chicken)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for frying

Optional Seasonings

• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

1. Boil water: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
2. Blanch the cabbage: Carefully peel individual leaves from the head of cabbage. Blanch each leaf in the boiling water for 2–3 minutes, or until soft and pliable. This makes them easier to wrap around the filling.
3. Drain: Remove the leaves and place them in a colander to drain. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture

1. Season the meat: In a large mixing bowl, add the ground meat. Season with salt, black pepper, and any optional seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
2. Combine: Use your hands or a spoon to mix the meat and seasonings until evenly combined.

Step 3: Fill and Roll the Cabbage Leaves

1. Assemble the rolls: Take a blanched cabbage leaf and place a portion of the seasoned meat mixture in the center.
2. Roll the leaf: Fold in the sides of the cabbage leaf and roll from the bottom up, creating a compact roll. This technique ensures the filling stays secure inside.
3. Repeat: Repeat the process with the remaining cabbage leaves and meat mixture.

Step 4: Coat the Cabbage Rolls

1. Prepare breadcrumbs: Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish.
2. Coat each roll: Roll each cabbage roll in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they are well-coated on all sides.

Step 5: Fry the Cabbage Rolls

1. Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat a generous amount of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Fry the rolls: Place the cabbage rolls in the hot skillet and fry for 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally to cook evenly. Fry until they are golden brown on all sides and the meat is fully cooked through.
3. Drain excess oil: Once cooked, remove the rolls from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 6: Serve

• Serve warm: Arrange the cabbage rolls on a serving plate, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Serve with a dipping sauce like sour cream or a spicy tomato sauce for extra flavor.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 16g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I bake the cabbage rolls instead of frying?

Yes, if you prefer a lighter version, you can bake them. Place the coated cabbage rolls on a baking sheet, lightly brush with oil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes or until golden.

2. What type of meat works best for cabbage rolls?

Any ground meat—beef, pork, or chicken—works well in cabbage rolls. For a traditional flavor, a mix of beef and pork is popular.

3. Can I freeze cabbage rolls?

Yes! You can freeze cabbage rolls before or after cooking. To freeze them before cooking, assemble the rolls, then freeze on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag. If freezing after cooking, let them cool completely before freezing.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cabbage Rolls

1. Choose the right cabbage: Use a medium-sized green cabbage for optimal leaf size and pliability.
2. Control the seasoning: Adjust seasoning according to your preference, especially with optional ingredients like garlic and paprika.
3. Breadcrumbs for extra crunch: Ensure each roll is thoroughly coated in breadcrumbs for an even, crispy texture.
4. Monitor oil temperature: Fry over medium heat to avoid burning the rolls. Adjust heat as needed, and don’t overcrowd the pan.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the crispy texture, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the cabbage rolls in a single layer on a tray before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat from frozen in the oven for the best texture.

Conclusion

Golden Crispy Cabbage Rolls are a delightful blend of textures and flavors, offering a new spin on a classic dish. These rolls are comforting, satisfying, and full of savory goodness. With their crunchy coating and seasoned meat filling, they’re a crowd-pleaser that’s versatile enough for family dinners, appetizers, or even meal prepping. Whether you’re a cabbage roll traditionalist or looking for a unique way to enjoy this dish, these crispy, golden rolls are sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the crispy satisfaction of each bite and impress your guests with this simple yet flavorful recipe!