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Ukrainian Cabbage Rolls

Ukrainian Cabbage Rolls: A Cozy Meal for Every Family Table

Delicious Ukrainian Cabbage Rolls (holubtsi) provide warmth and comfort for any gathering, with meat and vegetarian options available.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Servings: 6 rolls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Ukrainian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 1 head green cabbage Substitution: Napa cabbage
  • 1 lb ground pork Substitute with ground turkey
  • 1 lb ground beef Consider using a blend of lamb
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice Quinoa is a gluten-free option
  • 1 large onion Substitute with shallots
  • 2 cloves garlic Use garlic powder as a substitute
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill Use dried dill in half the amount
  • 1 tbsp paprika Smoked paprika can enhance flavor
  • to taste salt
  • to taste black pepper
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil Can substitute with olive oil
For the Tomato Sauce
  • 1 cup tomato sauce Alternative: crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup water or broth Stock adds more flavor
Optional Topping
  • to taste sour cream Use Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Medium saucepan
  • Large skillet
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking Dish
  • tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare Cabbage: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Core the green cabbage, then blanch the head for about 2-3 minutes until tender. Remove and cool slightly, then peel off the leaves.
  2. Cook Rice: Rinse 1 cup of long-grain white rice until the water runs clear. Combine with 2 cups of water in a saucepan, bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes until tender. Drain and cool.
  3. Sauté Vegetables: Heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper for 2 additional minutes.
  4. Make Filling: Combine 1 lb each of ground pork and beef, cooled rice, and sautéed onion in a large bowl. Add 1 tbsp of dill and mix thoroughly.
  5. Assemble Rolls: Trim the cabbage leaf vein, place 2-3 tablespoons of filling, fold in the sides, and roll tightly. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling, placing seam side down.
  6. Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread tomato sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish. Arrange cabbage rolls in a single layer, pouring remaining sauce over them.
  7. Bake: Pour 1 cup of water or broth around the edges, cover tightly with foil, and bake for 1 to 1.25 hours until cooked through and tender.

Nutrition

Serving: 1rollCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Notes

These cabbage rolls can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer. They reheat beautifully, making them a convenient meal option.

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