Ingredients

For the Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Ground Pork or Beef – 500 g
• Eggs – 2
• Salt – 1 teaspoon
• Ground Black Pepper – ½ teaspoon
• Paprika – 1 teaspoon
• Breadcrumbs – 70 g
• Tomato Sauce – 2 tablespoons
• Dried Ground Garlic – 1 teaspoon
• Onion – 1, finely chopped
• White Cabbage Leaves – 10–12 large leaves, blanched

For the Roasted Vegetables

• Zucchini – 1, sliced
• Potatoes – 300 g, cubed
• Red Bell Pepper – 1, sliced
• Olive Oil – 3 tablespoons
• Butter – 50 g
• Italian Herbs – 1 teaspoon
• Dried Basil – 1 teaspoon
• Salt – to taste
• Ground Black Pepper – to taste

For the Herb-Cheese Sauce

• Cheese – 100 g, grated
• Yogurt – 2 tablespoons
• Tomato Sauce – 1 teaspoon
• Garlic Cloves – 2, minced
• Soy Sauce – 1 teaspoon
• Fresh Dill and Green Onions – 1 bunch, chopped

For the Fresh Salad

• Tomatoes – 2, sliced
• Cucumber – 1, sliced
• Red Onion – ½, thinly sliced
• Salt – ½ teaspoon
• Ground Black Pepper – ½ teaspoon
• Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Rolls

1. Blanch the Cabbage Leaves: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add cabbage leaves and blanch for about 2–3 minutes until they become pliable. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Filling: In a large bowl, combine ground pork or beef, eggs, 1 teaspoon salt, black pepper, paprika, breadcrumbs, tomato sauce, dried garlic, and chopped onion. Mix until thoroughly combined.
3. Stuff and Roll the Cabbage: Place a heaping tablespoon of the meat mixture onto the base of each cabbage leaf. Roll the leaf tightly around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go. Repeat with all cabbage leaves.

Step 2: Cook the Cabbage Rolls

1. Sear the Rolls: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sear the cabbage rolls until they’re browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
2. Add Tomato Sauce: Pour in a little extra tomato sauce and water to cover the bottom of the skillet, then cover the pan. Let the rolls cook on low heat for about 20–25 minutes or until the meat is cooked through and cabbage is tender.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). In a mixing bowl, toss zucchini, potatoes, and red bell pepper with olive oil, butter, Italian herbs, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Roast: Spread the vegetables evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the oven for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and golden brown.

Step 4: Make the Herb-Cheese Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, mix grated cheese, yogurt, tomato sauce, minced garlic, soy sauce, and a splash of water. Heat over low, stirring constantly, until cheese melts and sauce is smooth.
2. Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in chopped dill and green onions just before serving.

Step 5: Prepare the Fresh Salad

1. Toss the Ingredients: In a bowl, combine sliced tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss until everything is coated.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 650 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 40g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugars: 6g

Servings

This recipe serves approximately 4 people.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a dish that has been enjoyed by many cultures for centuries, from Eastern Europe to parts of the Mediterranean. These rolls are a perfect balance of hearty meat filling, tender cabbage, and warming spices. Paired with a simple roasted vegetable medley, this meal is full of vibrant colors and flavors. The addition of the herb-cheese sauce and fresh salad gives a modern twist to a classic dish, bringing freshness and creaminess to the plate. It’s a recipe that brings people together around the table and never goes out of style.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of pork or beef?
   • Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative if you want a leaner protein.
2. What if I can’t find white cabbage?
   • Napa or Savoy cabbage works well as a substitute due to its flexible leaves.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   • Absolutely. Substitute the meat filling with a mix of finely chopped mushrooms, carrots, and lentils.
4. What type of cheese works best for the sauce?
   • A melting cheese like cheddar or Gouda works great, but you can use any cheese with a similar consistency.

Tips for Making Perfect Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Blanch Properly: Blanching the cabbage leaves makes them easier to roll and gives them a softer texture.
• Avoid Overfilling: Use a moderate amount of filling so that the cabbage rolls don’t burst during cooking.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the filling and adjust seasonings to your preference before rolling.
• Let the Rolls Rest: Allow the rolls to rest for a few minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld together.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover cabbage rolls and roasted vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cabbage rolls individually in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to 1 month in the freezer. Thaw and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop.
• Reheating: Reheat cabbage rolls in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or tomato sauce to keep them moist.

Conclusion

This Stuffed Cabbage and Vegetable Medley with Herb-Cheese Sauce is a delicious, hearty meal that’s perfect for any special occasion or as a comforting weekend dinner. It’s a recipe that honors tradition while embracing fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The stuffed cabbage rolls are tender and filled with savory meat, while the roasted vegetables add a delightful texture and flavor. The herb-cheese sauce brings a creamy element that complements both the cabbage rolls and vegetables, and the fresh salad adds a crisp, refreshing contrast.

This dish showcases how the simplest ingredients—cabbage, ground meat, herbs, and vegetables—can be transformed into a flavorful, balanced, and visually stunning meal. Perfect for sharing, these stuffed cabbage rolls are sure to become a beloved recipe in your home, creating memories and warm gatherings for years to come. So set your table, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the timeless comfort of stuffed cabbage rolls. Bon appétit!