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Ukrainian Cabbage Rolls

Delicious Ukrainian Cabbage Rolls That Bring Comfort Home

These Ukrainian Cabbage Rolls (Holubtsi) are tender leaves wrapped around a flavorful filling, perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 6 rolls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Ukrainian
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 1 cup Basmati Rice Substitute with jasmine rice for a similar result.
  • ½ teaspoon Salt Adjust according to your taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be swapped with any neutral oil.
  • 1 tablespoon Butter Use dairy-free alternatives for vegan options.
  • 1 medium Onion Shallots also work well as a substitute.
  • 1 medium Carrot Parsnips can give a unique twist.
  • ½ teaspoon Black Pepper Customize the quantity based on preference.
  • 1 pound Ground Pork Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative.
  • ¼ cup Parsley Dill can be used for a more traditional flavor.
For the Cabbage Rolls
  • 1 head Cabbage Green cabbage is classic, but savoy cabbage is tender.
  • 2 pieces Bay Leaves Use dried or fresh as available.
For the Sauce
  • 2 cups Tomato Sauce Homemade or canned works great.
  • 1 cup Sour Cream Use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • large skillet
  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • tongs

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ukrainian Cabbage Rolls
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of rinsed basmati rice, 2 cups of water, and ½ teaspoon salt. Cook on low heat for about 15 minutes, or until the water has evaporated and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add 1 finely minced onion and 1 grated carrot, sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes until translucent. Set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Combine the cooled rice, sautéed vegetables, 1 pound of ground pork, ¼ cup of chopped parsley, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper in a mixing bowl. Mix gently until combined.
  4. Core the cabbage head, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and blanch the cabbage leaves for 2 to 3 minutes until flexible. Transfer leaves to a plate to cool.
  5. Trim thick stems from softened cabbage leaves. Place filling at the base of each leaf, roll tightly, tucking in the sides. Arrange on a tray.
  6. In a large pot, layer sliced carrots and leftover cabbage leaves at the bottom. Arrange cabbage rolls on top, intersperse with tomato sauce and sour cream.
  7. Cover pot with water to just cover the top layer of rolls, cover with a lid, and simmer on low heat for about 1 hour. Remove from heat and rest covered for 15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1rollCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 18gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure rice is completely cooled before mixing with ground pork. Blanch cabbage leaves for easier rolling. Allow dish to rest covered after cooking to enhance flavors.

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