Cabbage rolls are one of the most beloved and recognizable dishes of Eastern European cuisine. Tender cabbage leaves filled with a juicy mixture of meat and rice create a harmony of flavors that bring the warmth of a family meal. Despite seeming complicated, the cooking process is quite simple if you follow the right steps.

In this article, we’ll go over in detail:

• the necessary ingredients,
• preparation steps,
• step-by-step recipe,
• cooking variations (classic, oven, multicooker),
• useful tips and secrets,
• dish variations around the world.

🥬 Main Ingredients

To prepare delicious cabbage rolls, you will need simple products:

For the filling:

• Minced meat (pork + beef in equal proportions) – 600 g
• Rice – 150 g (about ½ cup)
• Onion – 2 pcs.
• Carrot – 1 pc.
• Garlic – 2 cloves
• Salt – to taste
• Ground black pepper – to taste
• A little fresh herbs (dill, parsley) – optional

For the base:

• White cabbage – 1 large head

For the sauce:

• Tomato paste – 3 tbsp
• Sour cream – 150 g
• Water or broth – 300 ml
• Bay leaf – 2–3 pcs.
• Spices: dried basil, oregano, paprika (to taste)

🔪 Preparing the Cabbage

One of the most important steps is to prepare the leaves so they become soft and elastic.

Methods:

1. Classic (in boiling water):

• Remove the tough outer leaves.
• Place the head into boiling water for 5–7 minutes.
• Carefully separate the leaves one by one.

2. Freezing:

• Wash the cabbage and place it in the freezer for 10–12 hours.
• After thawing, the leaves become soft and pliable.

3. Microwave:

• Pierce the stalk with a knife.
• Microwave for 8–10 minutes at medium power.

🥘 Preparing the Filling

1. Boil the rice until half-cooked (about 5–7 minutes).
2. Finely chop the onion, grate the carrot, and sauté lightly in a pan.
3. In a bowl, mix minced meat, rice, sautéed vegetables, garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs.
4. Mix thoroughly until smooth.

📜 Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Place a prepared cabbage leaf on the table.
2. Put 1–2 tbsp of filling in the center.
3. Roll:
   • fold in the sides,
   • then roll it up into a cylinder.
4. Place the rolls into a deep pan or pot.
5. Prepare the sauce: mix tomato paste, sour cream, water, and spices.
6. Pour the sauce over the rolls, add bay leaves.
7. Simmer covered for 40–50 minutes over low heat.

🔥 Cooking Variations

1. Classic (in a pot)

• The rolls are covered with sauce and simmered on the stovetop.
• The taste is rich and traditional.

2. In the Oven

• Place rolls into a baking dish and cover with sauce.
• Bake at 180°C (356°F) for about 60 minutes.
• They turn out more roasted and aromatic.

3. In a Multicooker

• Use the “Stew” mode – 1 hour.
• Minimal effort, yet the taste is just as good.

💡 Tips and Secrets

• If the cabbage is tough, cut off the thick veins with a knife.
• For more tenderness, add a little milk or butter to the filling.
• For a lighter option, use chicken or turkey mince.
• Mini-cabbage rolls are great for buffets and parties.

🌍 Variations Around the World

• Ukraine: often includes mushrooms in the filling.
• Poland (gołąbki): served with creamy sauce.
• Balkans (sarma): made with pickled (fermented) cabbage leaves.
• Sweden (kåldolmar): served with mashed potatoes.

🍴 Serving

• Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
• Pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or bread.
• You can also serve with sour cream or a yogurt-based sauce.

✅ Conclusion

Cabbage rolls with meat and rice are a symbol of home warmth and comfort. While the process requires some patience, the result is worth it: a fragrant dish loved by both adults and children.

• Versatility: can be cooked in different ways.
• Practicality: a hearty meal made from simple ingredients.
• Tradition: cabbage rolls bring people together and create a festive mood.

Try making cabbage rolls with this recipe, and you’ll definitely want to repeat it!