As I rifled through my family’s cherished recipes, a familiar scent whisked me back in time—a cozy kitchen filled with nostalgia, where my grandmother’s Cabbage Rolls Golubtsi danced on the stovetop. These traditional stuffed cabbage rolls are a labor of love, wrapping a savory blend of ground beef and pork in a creamy tomato sauce that warms the soul. Not only are they perfect for assembling on a weekend, but they also make a freezer-friendly meal that’s ready to rescue weeknight dinners from the clutches of fast food. With high vitamin C content, they’re as nourishing as they are comforting. Ready to roll up your sleeves and bring this family favorite to your own table? Let’s dive into the delicious world of Golubtsi together! Why are cabbage rolls so comforting? Comforting Tradition: This recipe brings cherished family memories to life, making it perfect for gatherings. Nutrient-Dense: Packed with vitamin C, these rolls nourish while delighting the taste buds. Freezer-Friendly: Easily prepare a batch to save for busy nights, saving you from fast food. Versatile Filling: Feel free to experiment with flavors, substituting cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. Rich & Creamy Sauce: The luscious tomato sauce adds the finishing touch, elevating each bite to pure bliss. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, these Golubtsi are sure to impress everyone! For more delicious ideas, check out my Sesame Chicken Cabbage salad or Basil Beef Rolls for a delightful twist! Cabbage Rolls Golubtsi Ingredients Here’s everything you need to bring these comforting Cabbage Rolls Golubtsi to life! For the Filling Cabbage – The outer layer that wraps around the savory filling; fresh, crispy green or savoy cabbage works best. Rice – Acts as a binding agent for texture; any type will do, just cook until al dente. Olive Oil – Used for sautéing the onions and enhancing flavors; don’t skip this step! Onion – Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed; finely chop for even flavor distribution. Ground Beef – The primary protein source; lean beef (5% fat) is recommended for a healthier option. Ground Pork – Adds moisture and richness in flavor; opt for lean pork (5% fat) for balance. Parsley – Freshly chopped for a splash of color and freshness in the filling. Carrots – Grated to incorporate sweetness and moisture; a lovely addition to the mix. Salt and Pepper – Essential for achieving the right flavor balance; season to taste. Bay Leaves – Adds a subtle herbal note while cooking; make sure to remove them before serving. For the Sauce Chicken Stock – Provides moisture and richness; substitute with vegetable stock for a lighter option. Sour Cream or Creme Fraiche – Creates a creamy texture in the sauce; full-fat versions yield the best results. Canned Crushed Tomatoes – The base for the sauce; can be swapped with tomato passata if needed. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cabbage Rolls Golubtsi Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Begin by placing your cabbage heads in the freezer for three days. This method softens the leaves, making them easier to separate later. Once frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight until they are pliable and ready for rolling. Step 2: Cook the Rice In a pot, bring water to a boil and add your chosen rice, cooking until just al dente as you’ll want it to maintain some texture. This should take about 10-12 minutes. Once done, drain the rice and set it aside to cool as you prepare the other filling ingredients. Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and let them sauté until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. Next, stir in grated carrots and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together before removing from heat. Step 4: Mix the Filling In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, cooked rice, sautéed onions, grated carrots, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly by hand until well-blended. The filling should be moist and fragrant, suitable for stuffing inside the cabbage leaves. Step 5: Prepare the Sauce In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken stock, canned crushed tomatoes, sour cream, salt, and pepper until smooth. This creamy sauce will envelop the cabbage rolls, so ensure the mixture is well combined and velvety before moving on to the next step. Step 6: Separate Cabbage Leaves Carefully remove the thawed cabbage leaves one by one, trimming the thick ribs at the base to make rolling them easier. Lay out the leaves flat on a clean surface, ensuring they are all ready for filling. Step 7: Roll the Cabbage Place approximately two tablespoons of your filling mixture onto each cabbage leaf. Roll the leaf tightly, tucking in the sides as you go to secure the filling. Arrange each roll seam-side down in a large baking dish, ensuring they fit snugly without overcrowding. Step 8: Layer the Rolls Pour a bit of sauce on the bottom of the baking dish, then layer half of the cabbage rolls over this sauce. Sprinkle in the bay leaves and drizzle with half of the remaining sauce before adding the rest of the rolls on top, finishing with the remaining sauce poured over. Step 9: Bake the Cabbage Rolls Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in a preheated oven set to 350°F. Bake for 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld. After the hour, remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the sauce is bubbling and slightly thickened. Step 10: Serve and Enjoy Once baked to perfection, let the cabbage rolls cool slightly. Serve them warm, garnished with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an added touch of flavor and color. Enjoy the comforting flavors of these Cabbage Rolls Golubtsi at your family table. Cabbage Rolls Golubtsi Variations Feel free to explore these delightful variations that can take your Cabbage Rolls Golubtsi to new flavor heights! Low-Carb Twist: Substitute cauliflower rice for a nutritious, low-carb alternative without sacrificing flavor. These tender rolls still deliver that comforting essence you love. Vegetarian Option: Use lentils or chickpeas in place of meat for a hearty, plant-based alternative. Season well with spices for an extra burst of flavor! Spice it Up: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick. This lively twist will awaken your taste buds in every bite! Herby Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs such as dill or thyme into the filling for a vibrant touch of aromatics. This will elevate the traditional flavor profile and add a refreshing element. Sauce Alternatives: Swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt in the sauce for a creamier, tangy flavor that still retains richness while offering a healthier twist. Creamy Dreams: Mix cream cheese into your sauce for an even richer texture. It creates a luxurious finish that complements the rolls beautifully, making every bite decadent! Flavorful Broth: Choose vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a vegan-friendly option that steers away from meat while keeping it savory. The flavor will still shine through! For even more inspiration, don’t miss my Ground Beef Cabbage stir-fry or try these delicious Shrimp Tempura Rolls as a delightful side! Make Ahead Options These Cabbage Rolls Golubtsi are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the filling (ground beef, ground pork, rice, and vegetables) and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before assembling. Additionally, you can roll the cabbage leaves and fill them a day in advance or even freeze the assembled rolls for up to 3 months in an airtight container. To maintain quality, ensure all components are cool before refrigeration or freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen at 350°F, adding an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time, and you’ll have a comforting home-cooked meal with minimal effort! What to Serve with Cabbage Rolls Golubtsi Elevate your dinner experience by pairing these comforting rolls with dishes that complement their rich flavors and creamy sauce. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture of mashed potatoes soaks up the flavorful sauce, creating a comforting duo that never fails to satisfy. Fresh Cucumber Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with cucumbers and tomatoes cuts through the rich flavors of the Golubtsi, balancing the meal beautifully. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, garlic-infused breadsticks are perfect for sopping up that luscious creamy tomato sauce, adding a bit of indulgence to the table. Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Seasonal veggies drizzled with olive oil and herbs provide a lovely contrast to the savory rolls, enhancing not only the taste but also the meal’s nutritional profile. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these carrots add a delightful touch of sweetness to your plate, making each bite a well-rounded experience. Herb-Infused Rice: A bed of fluffy rice infused with fresh herbs complements the rolls while highlighting their savory filling, perfect for a unified presentation. Sweet Apple Cider: This warming drink enhances the comforting feel of the meal, with just the right sweetness to contrast the savory flavors of the cabbage rolls. Chocolate Cake: For a dessert that rounds out the meal with a rich finish, indulge in a moist chocolate cake that leaves everyone craving just one more bite. How to Store and Freeze Cabbage Rolls Golubtsi Fridge: Store cooked cabbage rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep them fresh and flavorful for your upcoming meals. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cabbage rolls in airtight freezer bags for up to 1 month. Lay them flat so they stack easily, then reheat in the oven covered until warmed through. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw your cabbage rolls in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F for 20-30 minutes until heated thoroughly, ensuring that the creamy tomato sauce remains inviting and delightful. Expert Tips for Cabbage Rolls Golubtsi Sauté First: Sauté onions and carrots before mixing into the filling; this enhances their natural sweetness and flavor. Chill for Flavor: Allow the prepared filling to chill for about 30 minutes; this helps the flavors meld beautifully. Layer with Care: When layering the rolls in the baking dish, stack them loosely to ensure even cooking and to avoid tearing. Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the filling reaches an internal temperature of 160°F for safe consumption. Customize with Herbs: Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like dill or thyme in your filling for added depth of flavor in your cabbage rolls Golubtsi. Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before freezing in airtight containers to preserve flavor and texture. Cabbage Rolls Golubtsi Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best cabbage for my rolls? Absolutely! You want to look for fresh, crispy heads of green or savoy cabbage. Aim for one that feels dense and has vibrant leaves without any dark spots or wilting. The leaves should be firm but tender enough to roll easily after blanching. How long can I store cooked cabbage rolls in the fridge? Cooked cabbage rolls Golubtsi can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let them cool completely before storing to avoid moisture build-up, which can make them soggy! Can I freeze cabbage rolls, and how should I do it? Yes, you can freeze cabbage rolls for up to 1 month! First, let them cool completely after cooking. Then, place the rolls in airtight freezer bags, stacking them flat for easy storage. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven covered until warm throughout. What should I do if my cabbage leaves are too tough to roll? If you find your cabbage leaves are tough, don’t worry! You can bring a pot of water to a boil and briefly blanch the leaves for about 2-3 minutes until they soften. Remove them from the water and let them cool before using. This will make rolling a breeze and ensure your cabbage rolls come out perfect! Are cabbage rolls suitable for gluten-free diets? Yes, they can be! Simply ensure that the rice and any stock used are gluten-free. You may also opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs if you’re adding any to the filling. Always double-check labels for any hidden gluten sources to keep the dish safe for those with sensitivities. Can I make Cabbage Rolls Golubtsi vegetarian-friendly? Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, swap out the meats for a mix of cooked lentils, mushrooms, and perhaps some sautéed onions and nuts for texture. You can still use the same creamy tomato sauce for that lovely flavor! Just be sure to adjust the seasoning according to your taste. Cabbage Rolls Golubtsi: Comforting Family Favorite Recipe A delicious recipe for Cabbage Rolls Golubtsi, a family favorite filled with beef, pork, and creamy tomato sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 2 hours hrs Servings: 6 rollsCourse: DinnerCuisine: UkrainianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Filling1 head Cabbage fresh, crispy green or savoy1 cup Rice cooked until al dente1 tablespoon Olive Oil for sautéing1 large Onion finely chopped1 pound Ground Beef lean, 5% fat recommended1 pound Ground Pork lean, 5% fat recommended1/4 cup Parsley freshly chopped1 medium Carrot gratedto taste Saltto taste Pepper2 leaves Bay Leaves remove before servingFor the Sauce2 cups Chicken Stock or vegetable stock1 cup Sour Cream or creme fraiche28 ounces Canned Crushed Tomatoes or tomato passata Equipment PotSkilletLarge mixing bowlBaking dish Method Preparation StepsPlace cabbage heads in the freezer for three days to soften the leaves.In a pot, bring water to a boil and cook rice until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and cool.Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté onions until translucent, add grated carrots, and cook for 2-3 more minutes.In a bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, cooked rice, sautéed onions, carrots, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.In another bowl, whisk chicken stock, crushed tomatoes, sour cream, salt, and pepper until smooth.Remove thawed cabbage leaves, trim thick ribs, and lay them flat.Place filling onto each leaf, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in a baking dish.Layer a bit of sauce on the bottom, add half the rolls, sprinkle bay leaves, and drizzle with half the remaining sauce. Repeat with remaining rolls.Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 1 hour. Remove foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes.Let the rolls cool slightly before serving garnished with sour cream and fresh herbs. Nutrition Serving: 1rollCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 20gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 5mg NotesSauté onions and carrots first to enhance sweetness. Chill filling for 30 minutes for better flavor. Ensure filling reaches 160°F for safety. Store leftovers in airtight containers. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
