Stuffed Chinese Cabbage Rolls

This delightful dish of stuffed Chinese cabbage rolls bursts with comforting flavors and rich textures. The succulent meat filling, complemented with a touch of sweet cream and a hint of dill, is wrapped in tender cabbage leaves. It's then baked to perfection in a tangy tomato sauce, creating a meal that's both satisfying and full of flavor. With a combination of protein, vegetables, and rice, these rolls feature a harmonious balance of nutrients. Ideal for a family dinner or a special occasion, they offer a comforting yet elegant option. The preparation takes a bit of time, but the results are undoubtedly worth the effort. Throughout the cooking process, the aroma fills the kitchen with warmth and anticipation. These cabbage rolls can be paired with various side dishes to complete a meal that's sure to impress both seasoned foodies and picky eaters alike.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

3 heads Chinese cabbage
1 kg ground meat
2 onions
2 cans diced tomatoes in juice
200 g sweet cream
50 g dill, chopped
3 eggs
400 g rice, cooked
100 g butter

Preparation Time

Total Time: 70 minutes
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Cabbage: Separate the Chinese cabbage into individual leaves, removing any tough stems. Blanch them in boiling water for 5 minutes to soften. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat with finely chopped onions, salt, pepper, chopped dill, eggs, and cooked rice. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Assemble the Rolls: Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Place a generous spoonful of the meat mixture at the base of the leaf. Roll the leaf tightly around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go to form a compact roll.
Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter and sauté the remaining chopped onion until translucent. Add the canned tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Finish the Sauce: Stir in the sweet cream to the tomato sauce and blend it until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar to taste.
Bake the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls snugly in a baking dish. Pour the tomato cream sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are well-covered.
Cook the Rolls: Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 40 minutes, then remove the cover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to slightly brown the tops if desired.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these rolls hot with additional fresh dill sprinkled on top for garnish.

Tips

Substitution: Use turkey or chicken mince for a lighter option.
Freeze: This dish freezes well, making it ideal for meal prepping.
Dill Alternative: If you don’t like dill, parsley is a great substitute.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 26 g
Fats: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 12 g

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with a mixture of mushrooms and chickpeas.
Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for extra heat.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with freshly baked bread or a side salad.
Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.

Best Places

The Green Cabbage - Known for their innovative takes on traditional dishes. Location: 123 Green Lane, New York, USA.
Cabbage & Crumbs - Offers a unique blend of European flavors. Location: 456 Culinary Ave, London, UK.
Guten Lagen - German style with a twist, excellent sauerkraut. Location: 789 Bavarian Rd, Munich, Germany.
Yum Yum Leaves - Asian-inspired cuisine in a cozy setting. Location: 321 Spice Boulevard, Bangkok, Thailand.
Rolls of Joy - Family-run with a focus on traditional family recipes. Location: 654 Joy Street, Toronto, Canada.
Savory Layers - Rests in a friendly neighborhood with robust flavors. Location: 987 Layer Lane, Sydney, Australia.
Bite & Delight - Famous for their delightful and filling rolls. Location: 213 Taste Road, Paris, France.
Culture & Flavor - Blending classic and modern techniques beautifully. Location: 567 Aroma Ave, Rome, Italy.
Leafy Gourmet - Offers a gourmet experience with every bite. Location: 901 Elegant St, Tokyo, Japan.
Worldly Rolls - Celebrates global flavors with a twist. Location: 456 Unity Blvd, Cape Town, South Africa.