ukrainian cabbage rolls recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
ukrainian cabbage rolls recipe
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The Best ukrainian cabbage rolls recipe

I’ve always been fascinated by the Ukrainian cabbage rolls recipe, also known as golabki. It’s a dish that’s steeped in tradition and history, with roots dating back to Eastern Europe.

The first time I made it, I was struck by the simplicity and elegance of the recipe. The combination of tender cabbage leaves, flavorful ground meat, and a rich tomato-based sauce is truly magical.

As I cooked, I realized that this dish is not just a meal, but an experience – a sensory journey that transports you to a different time and place. My kids loved helping me assemble the rolls, and they couldn’t get enough of the savory aroma wafting from the oven.

Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, Ukrainian cabbage rolls are always a good idea. The best part?

They’re relatively easy to make and can be customized to suit your tastes. I’ve experimented with various fillings and seasonings over the years, but the classic version remains my favorite.

There’s something comforting about watching the cabbage leaves unfold as they cook, releasing their subtle sweetness into the air. It’s a feeling that never gets old.

Ukrainian Cabbage Rolls

Ukrainian Cabbage Rolls

4.7 from 1186 votes

Tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of ground meat and rice, simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This hearty dish is a staple of Ukrainian cuisine, perfect for a comforting family meal.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time1 hour 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hours
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Rolls

1 large head of green cabbage
1 pound ground pork
1/2 pound ground beef
1 cup cooked white rice
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, grated
3 cups tomato sauce
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Carefully place the whole head of cabbage into the water and boil for 2 to 3 minutes until the outer leaves become pliable and translucent.
3Using tongs, remove the cabbage and peel off the softened outer leaves.
4Return the head to the boiling water and repeat the process until you have 12 to 15 large leaves.
5Trim the thick center vein from each leaf to make rolling easier.
6In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, ground beef, cooked rice, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, salt, pepper, and paprika.
7Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
8Place a cabbage leaf on a flat surface with the stem end facing you.
9Spoon about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the filling onto the center of the leaf.
10Fold the sides over the filling, then roll tightly from the stem end to form a neat cylinder.
11Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
12Add the diced onion and grated carrots, and saute for 5 to 7 minutes until the onions are translucent and the carrots are softened.
13In the same skillet, stir in the tomato sauce, chicken broth, tomato paste, vinegar, sugar, and bay leaf.
14Season with salt and pepper to taste.
15Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low.
16Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
17Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a single layer in a Dutch oven.
18Pour the prepared sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are mostly covered.
19Cover the pot with a lid.
20Bake the cabbage rolls in the preheated oven for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes.
21The rolls are done when the meat is cooked through and the cabbage is very tender.
22Let them rest for 10 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot for blanching cabbage
Mixing bowl
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Large skillet
Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot with lid
Tongs
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 980mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 6g🍬Sugars: 12g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with a mixture of cooked lentils and mushrooms. The rolls can be prepared a day ahead and reheated gently in the oven or on the stovetop.

Watch Video Of How Ukrainian Cabbage Rolls Works

Ukrainian cabbage rolls are always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner.

Not only are they deliciously flavorful and satisfyingly filling, but they’re also relatively easy to make and can be customized to suit your tastes.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it freezes – simply thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven when you’re ready for lunch or dinner.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ukrainian Cabbage Rolls

Q: What is the difference between Ukrainian cabbage rolls and other types of stuffed cabbage?

A: Unlike some other stuffed cabbage recipes that use rice or other grains as fillers, Ukrainian cabbage rolls rely on ground meat for flavor and texture. This gives them a heartier, more satisfying feel that’s hard to resist.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked sausage instead of ground pork?

A: While you can certainly experiment with different meats, traditional Ukrainian cabbage rolls are made with ground pork for its rich flavor and tender texture. That being said, if you prefer a milder flavor or have dietary restrictions, using pre-cooked sausage can be a suitable substitute. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Q: How do I keep the cabbage leaves from tearing during assembly?

A: To prevent tears in the delicate leaves, gently blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds to loosen their fibers before assembling the rolls. This will make them easier to work with and help maintain their structure throughout cooking.

Q: Can I make Ukrainian cabbage rolls ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them?

A: Yes! You can assemble and refrigerate the rolled cabbage for up to 24 hours before cooking or freeze them for up to 3 months. When freezing, be sure to wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

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