9 Best Cabbage Roll Recipes for Delicious Home Cooking

Cabbage rolls are a delicious and versatile dish enjoyed in many cultures around the world. They typically consist of cabbage leaves filled with various ingredients, providing a comforting and satisfying meal. In this article, I will share the nine best cabbage roll recipes that highlight different flavors and styles, making it easy to find a favorite.

From traditional recipes to modern twists, each preparation offers a unique taste experience. I believe these recipes will appeal to both seasoned cooks and beginners looking to try something new. Whether you prefer meat-filled or vegetarian options, there is a cabbage roll recipe here for everyone.

1. Classic Polish Cabbage Rolls

Classic Polish cabbage rolls, known as golabki, are a comforting dish made from cabbage leaves filled with a mixture of meat and rice. They are popular at family gatherings and special occasions.

I find them easy to make, even for beginners. The process involves a few simple steps. First, I prepare the filling by mixing ground meat, cooked rice, onions, and spices.

Next, I blanch the cabbage leaves in boiling water for a few minutes. This makes them flexible and easier to roll. After cooling slightly, I place a small amount of filling on each leaf and roll them tightly, tucking in the sides.

Then, I arrange the rolls in a baking dish. I cover them with tomato sauce and add some broth. I usually bake them covered for about an hour at 350°F (175°C), then remove the cover and bake for another 15 minutes.

The result is tender cabbage rolls with a flavorful filling. I often serve them with a dollop of sour cream on top. This dish brings warmth and tradition to any meal.

2. Greek Avgolemono Cabbage Rolls

Greek Avgolemono cabbage rolls are a delicious dish made with cabbage leaves stuffed with a flavorful mixture of meat and rice. They are finished with a creamy avgolemono sauce, which is a blend of egg yolks, lemon juice, and chicken broth.

Making these rolls is quite easy. First, I prepare the filling by combining ground meat, rice, herbs, and spices. Next, I blanch the cabbage leaves to make them pliable.

Here are the steps I usually follow:

1. Boil the cabbage for about 5-7 minutes to soften the leaves.
2. Prepare the filling by mixing 1 cup of cooked rice with 1 pound of ground meat and seasonings.
3. Place a spoonful of the filling on each leaf and roll them up tightly.
4. Arrange the rolls in a baking dish and pour chicken broth over them.
5. Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes.

To finish, I whisk together egg yolks and lemon juice. After cooking, I remove the rolls and stir the avgolemono mixture into the warm broth. I pour this sauce over the cabbage rolls before serving. These rolls offer a comforting and tangy taste that pairs well with the savory filling.

3. Spicy Korean Kimchi Cabbage Rolls

Spicy Korean kimchi cabbage rolls are a delicious blend of flavors. They use napa cabbage, which is essential for making kimchi. The rolls are filled with rice, pork, kimchi, and various seasonings.

I find them easy to prepare. The process usually takes about 30 minutes for preparation and another 30 minutes for cooking.

Here’s how I make them:

1. Prepare the Napa Cabbage: Boil large leaves of napa cabbage until soft, about 3-5 minutes.
2. Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix cooked rice, ground pork, chopped kimchi, garlic, and soy sauce.
3. Roll Them Up: Take a cabbage leaf, place a portion of the filling in the center, and roll it tightly, tucking in the sides.
4. Cook the Rolls: Place the rolls seam-side down in a pot with some kimchi juice. Add water to cover them. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes.

These rolls are flavorful and showcase the unique taste of kimchi. They make for a great meal or snack.

4. Hungarian Sauerkraut Cabbage Rolls

Hungarian sauerkraut cabbage rolls are a delicious dish made with pickled cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture. The filling usually includes ground meat, rice, and spices. The tanginess of the sauerkraut adds a unique flavor.

I find these rolls are relatively easy to make. They require some preparation, but the steps are straightforward.

Here’s how I prepare them:

1. Prep the Cabbage: I start by boiling a head of cabbage in salted water for about 5–10 minutes. This softens the leaves, making them easier to roll.
2. Make the Filling: In a bowl, I mix 1 pound of ground meat, 1 cup of cooked rice, and 1 cup of sauerkraut. I also add spices like paprika, salt, and pepper to enhance the taste.
3. Assemble the Rolls: I take a cabbage leaf, place a generous spoonful of filling inside, and roll it up tightly. I tuck in the sides to secure the filling.
4. Cook the Rolls: I layer the rolls in a pot, adding more sauerkraut and some broth. I let them simmer on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours.

These cabbage rolls are hearty and make for a satisfying meal.

5. Vegetarian Quinoa Cabbage Rolls

Vegetarian quinoa cabbage rolls are a healthy and tasty dish that combines cabbage leaves with a filling made primarily of quinoa. This dish is easy to make and is packed with nutrients.

To prepare this recipe, I start by cooking 1 cup of quinoa according to package instructions. Quinoa is a great source of protein and fiber.

Next, I carefully separate and blanch 10 cabbage leaves in boiling water for about 2 minutes. This step makes the leaves soft and easier to roll.

In a bowl, I mix the cooked quinoa with 1 cup of chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers and onions, and season with salt, pepper, and herbs to taste.

I then take a cabbage leaf, add two tablespoons of the quinoa mixture, and roll it tightly. To secure the rolls, I can use a toothpick if needed.

In a baking dish, I place the rolls seam-side down and cover them with a sauce, like marinara. I bake the cabbage rolls for 30 minutes at 375°F. This provides a warm, flavorful meal that is easy to enjoy.

6. Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Italian stuffed cabbage rolls are a delicious way to enjoy cabbage. They are made by wrapping cooked cabbage leaves around a filling, usually of meat, rice, and Italian spices.

Making these rolls is quite easy. I often prepare them for family dinners or gatherings. The process involves just a few steps and can be done in about an hour.

First, I boil the cabbage head until the leaves are tender, which takes about 5-10 minutes. Then, I let it cool and carefully peel off the leaves.

Next, I mix cooked rice, ground meat, and Italian seasoning in a bowl. I place a spoonful of this mixture in each cabbage leaf, rolling them tightly.

After that, I arrange the rolls in a baking dish and cover them with marinara sauce. I bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes.

The result is tender, flavorful rolls that are a hit at any meal. These rolls reflect the warmth and richness of Italian cooking.

7. Balkan Sour Cabbage Rolls

Balkan Sour Cabbage Rolls are a delicious dish made with fermented cabbage leaves. The sour flavor comes from the fermentation process, which adds a unique twist to traditional cabbage rolls. These rolls are easy to prepare and filled with a mixture of meat and rice.

To make these rolls, I follow these simple steps:

1. Prepare the cabbage: Remove the core from a head of pickled cabbage. Carefully peel off the leaves.
2. Make the filling: In a bowl, combine ground meat (like pork or beef), cooked rice, chopped onion, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll the leaves: Place a spoonful of the filling on each cabbage leaf. Roll it tightly and tuck in the sides.
4. Cook the rolls: Layer the rolls in a pot with some tomato sauce and broth. Simmer on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours.
5. Serve: Enjoy warm with a dollop of sour cream on top.

This dish is a staple in many Balkan households, showcasing the region’s rich culinary traditions. Each bite offers a mix of flavors and textures that is both hearty and satisfying.

8. Lebanese Meat and Rice Cabbage Rolls

Lebanese meat and rice cabbage rolls are a flavorful dish that combines tender cabbage leaves with a savory filling. The filling typically includes ground beef or lamb mixed with rice and spices, making each roll a satisfying meal.

I find these rolls fairly easy to make. Here’s a simple way to prepare them:

1. First, prepare the cabbage by boiling the whole head in salted water until the leaves are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
2. In a bowl, mix 1 cup of rice, 1 pound of ground meat, chopped parsley, and spices like allspice and cinnamon.
3. Take a softened cabbage leaf and place a spoonful of the filling in the center. Roll the leaf, tucking in the sides.
4. Place the rolls seam-side down in a pot. Add water or broth to cover them.
5. Cook on low heat for about 30-40 minutes until the meat is cooked and the rice is tender.

These rolls can be served with yogurt or a tomato sauce for added flavor. They offer a taste of Lebanese tradition right in my kitchen.

9. Japanese Pork and Napa Cabbage Rolls

Japanese Pork and Napa Cabbage Rolls are a delicious variation of traditional cabbage rolls. They combine ground pork with Napa cabbage, which is milder and sweeter than regular cabbage. This makes for a tasty and satisfying dish.

I find these rolls easy to make. You will need just a few ingredients: ground pork, Napa cabbage leaves, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. The recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.

To prepare, follow these steps:

1. Prep the Cabbage: Blanch leaves in boiling water for about 2 minutes. This softens them.
2. Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine 1 pound of ground pork, 2 teaspoons of soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
3. Assemble: Place a spoonful of the pork mixture in each cabbage leaf. Roll them up tightly.
4. Cook: In a pan, add a little oil over medium heat. Cook the rolls for about 10 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
5. Serve: Enjoy them hot with a drizzle of soy sauce or dipping sauce.

These rolls make a wonderful meal with great flavors.

What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Cabbage Rolls?

Cabbage rolls are more than just a delicious dish. They offer various nutritional benefits that can enhance a balanced diet.

First, cabbage is low in calories. This makes it a great choice for anyone trying to manage their weight. A single cup of chopped cabbage contains about 22 calories.

Second, cabbage is rich in fiber. Fiber helps improve digestion and keeps me feeling full longer. This can aid in maintaining a healthy weight.

Additionally, cabbage is packed with vitamins. It provides:

• Vitamin C: Supports the immune system.
• Vitamin K: Important for blood clotting and bone health.
• Folate: Essential for cell division and a healthy pregnancy.

When I add other ingredients, like lean meat or quinoa, I boost the protein content. Protein is vital for muscle repair and growth.

Cabbage rolls can also include a variety of vegetables. This adds more vitamins and minerals, making each roll a complete meal.

I appreciate how cabbage rolls can fit into different diets. They can be made gluten-free or vegetarian, catering to various preferences and nutritional needs.

With these benefits, cabbage rolls not only satisfy my taste buds but also support my health.

What Are Traditional Cabbage Rolls?

Traditional cabbage rolls are a beloved dish, known for their savory flavors and comforting qualities. They have a rich history and involve a variety of ingredients that come together to create a satisfying meal.

What Is the History and Origin of Cabbage Rolls?

Cabbage rolls have a long history, believed to date back centuries. Many cultures have their own versions, reflecting local ingredients and culinary traditions.

I find it fascinating that they are prevalent in Eastern European cuisines, particularly in Polish, Ukrainian, and Hungarian cooking. In these regions, they are often made with finely chopped meat and rice, rolled in pickled or blanched cabbage leaves.

Some say cabbage rolls originated in ancient Greece and spread through various countries. Each culture contributes its unique twist, which highlights the adaptability of the dish.

What Are the Common Ingredients in Traditional Cabbage Rolls?

The foundation of traditional cabbage rolls typically includes a few key ingredients:

• Cabbage Leaves: These are the outer wraps, providing a tender texture once cooked.
• Filling: A mixture of ground meat (usually beef or pork) combined with rice or grains.
• Seasonings: Ingredients like onions, garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs add depth of flavor.

In some recipes, tomato sauce or broth is added for moisture during cooking, enhancing the taste of the rolls.

I enjoy experimenting with the filling by adding ingredients like mushrooms or spices, which can give a unique flavor profile to this classic dish. These ingredients work together to create a comforting meal enjoyed by many around the world.

What Are Some Innovative Cabbage Roll Variations?

Cabbage rolls can be made unique and exciting by exploring different ingredients and cooking styles. Here are some ideas for innovative variations that cater to various dietary preferences.

What Are the Best Vegan and Vegetarian Options for Cabbage Rolls?

Incorporating plant-based ingredients into cabbage rolls can yield delicious results. I often use quinoa or rice as a base, mixing it with black beans, corn, and diced vegetables for added texture and flavor.

Additional ingredients might include:

• Mushrooms for an earthy taste.
• Chopped nuts like walnuts for crunch.
• Spices such as cumin and paprika to amplify the flavor.

For the filling, I recommend using a combination of sautéed onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Wrapping these fillings in cabbage leaves and drizzling them with a homemade tomato sauce creates a satisfying meal. This variation is perfect for anyone looking for hearty, meat-free options.

How Do You Make Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Cabbage Rolls?

For those following a low-carb or keto diet, I substitute traditional rice with cauliflower rice. This helps keep the carbs down while still providing a filling texture. I also like to add ground meat, such as beef or turkey, mixed with spices like oregano and thyme to enhance flavor.

Key points for this variation include:

• Using sliced vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms as extra layers instead of grains.
• Opting for cheesy toppings to enhance richness while keeping carbs low.

Baking these rolls in a zesty celery or tomato sauce can enhance the savory flavors. This way, I can enjoy a satisfying meal without straying from my dietary goals.