Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head of green cabbage (Savoy also works well)
- 1 lb ground protein (beef, turkey, or cooked lentils for a vegan option)
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg (or flax egg) as a binder
- 2 cups tomato sauce or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage with a sharp knife. Submerge the whole head of cabbage into the boiling water for 3 to 5 minutes. As the outer leaves soften and become translucent, peel them off one by one using tongs. Place the softened leaves on a paper towel to drain and cool. Use a knife to shave down the thick central rib of each leaf so it rolls easily.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine your choice of protein, cooked rice, diced onion, minced garlic, and the egg. Add the smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything by hand until the ingredients are well incorporated but not over-processed. If you are using lentils for a gut-healthy vegan version, ensure they are cooked and cooled before mixing.
- Lay one cabbage leaf flat on your workspace. Place about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the filling near the stem end of the leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf toward the center and roll it up tightly, like a small burrito or dumpling. Repeat this process until all the filling is used. Place the rolls seam-side down in a lightly greased baking dish or a deep skillet.
- Pour the tomato sauce or vegetable broth over the rolls, ensuring they are mostly covered. Cover the dish with a lid or foil. If using an oven, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes. If using a stovetop, simmer on low heat for 40 minutes. The cabbage should be tender enough to cut with a fork, and the filling should be fully cooked through.
- Carefully lift the cabbage rolls out of the dish and place them on a serving platter. Spoon the remaining sauce from the pan over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your healthy, budget-friendly meal!
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes