Irresistible Greek Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe to Savor

The aroma of Greek Stuffed Cabbage Rolls wafts through the air, a tantalizing invitation to indulge in layers of flavor wrapped snugly in tender cabbage leaves. Imagine biting into a hot roll, where the seasoned rice and ground meat meld perfectly, creating a warm hug for your taste buds. The rich tomato sauce pools around the rolls like a comforting blanket, making every bite an explosion of Mediterranean goodness.

I remember the first time I tasted these delightful rolls at my Aunt Maria’s Sunday dinner. The laughter, the clinking of glasses, and the mouthwatering smell from her kitchen made for an unforgettable evening. Now, I whip up this dish whenever I want to relive that joy or impress guests at parties. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or an adventurous potluck, Greek Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are always a hit—offering comfort and a dash of excitement on your plate.

Ingredients for Greek Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Green Cabbage: Choose a medium-sized head; its leaves should be firm and crisp for easy rolling.
• Ground Beef or Lamb: Using lean meat ensures your rolls are flavorful without being too greasy.
• Rice: Long-grain white rice works best; make sure it’s cooked just until tender.
• Fresh Parsley: This herb adds freshness; opt for bright green leaves without wilting.
• Diced Tomatoes: Use canned tomatoes with their juices for added moisture in the filling.

For the Sauce:

• Tomato Sauce: A smooth base to bring everything together; consider using homemade or store-bought.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice enhances brightness and balances flavors beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Greek Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully peel off about ten large leaves from the cabbage head and blanch them in boiling water for about three minutes until they’re pliable but not mushy.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef or lamb with cooked rice, diced tomatoes, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and some lemon juice. Mix until well combined—don’t be afraid to get your hands in there!

Step 3: Stuff the Rolls

Take each cabbage leaf and place about two tablespoons of filling near the stem end. Fold in the sides and roll tightly until you have a neat little package—think of it as wrapping up a precious gift!

Step 4: Arrange in Baking Dish

Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking. Place each stuffed cabbage roll seam-side down in rows until all rolls are snugly packed together.

Step 5: Add Sauce

Pour any remaining tomato sauce over the top of your cabbage rolls and drizzle with more lemon juice. Cover tightly with foil to keep them moist while baking.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about one hour. Remove foil during the last fifteen minutes for a little browning action on top.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the cabbage to soften the leaves, then prepare the filling while it cools. Assemble your stuffed cabbage rolls, and finally, simmer them in a delicious tomato sauce for maximum flavor absorption.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add quinoa for a healthier twist. Experiment with spices like dill or cumin to give your Greek stuffed cabbage rolls a unique flair that reflects your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Greek stuffed cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven or microwave until heated through, keeping that delicious sauce intact.

I remember the first time I made Greek stuffed cabbage rolls; my family devoured them in minutes! Their delighted faces made all the chopping worth it, and now it’s our go-to dish for gatherings.

FAQs:

What are Greek Stuffed Cabbage Rolls?

Greek stuffed cabbage rolls, known as “dolmadakia,” are a traditional dish made by wrapping seasoned rice and meat mixture in cabbage leaves. This dish is often flavored with herbs like dill and parsley, providing a fresh taste. It’s commonly served with a lemon sauce for added zest. These rolls can be enjoyed as an appetizer or main dish and are well-loved for their hearty yet delicate flavor profile.

How do I make Greek Stuffed Cabbage Rolls healthier?

To make Greek stuffed cabbage rolls healthier, consider using lean ground meat like turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding finely chopped mushrooms or zucchini to the filling. Using brown rice instead of white rice enhances fiber content. Additionally, prepare the rolls using less oil and opt for steaming or baking instead of frying to keep them light yet delicious.

Can I freeze Greek Stuffed Cabbage Rolls?

Yes, you can freeze Greek stuffed cabbage rolls for later enjoyment. After cooking, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through. This makes meal prep easy and convenient.

What sides pair well with Greek Stuffed Cabbage Rolls?

Greek stuffed cabbage rolls pair beautifully with a variety of sides. A simple Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese complements the flavors perfectly. You might also serve these rolls alongside lemon rice or roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal. Tzatziki sauce offers a refreshing dip that enhances the overall dining experience.

Conclusion for Greek Stuffed Cabbage Rolls:

In summary, Greek stuffed cabbage rolls provide a delightful combination of flavors, making them a cherished dish in Mediterranean cuisine. With options to customize ingredients for health benefits and various side dishes that enhance their appeal, they remain versatile for any occasion. Whether enjoyed at family gatherings or as comfort food at home, these cabbage rolls promise satisfaction with every bite. Prepare them with love and enjoy a taste of Greece!

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Greek Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Author: Camiliya
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

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Description

Experience the delightful fusion of Mediterranean flavors in these Greek Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, featuring tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling, all topped with a rich tomato sauce.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 medium head green cabbage
• 1 lb lean ground beef or lamb
• 1 cup cooked long-grain white rice
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned with juices)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 2 tbsp lemon juice

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Instructions

1. 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully peel off about ten large leaves from the cabbage head and blanch them in boiling water for three minutes until pliable.
2. 2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef or lamb, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
3. 3. Take each cabbage leaf and place about two tablespoons of filling near the stem end. Fold in the sides and roll tightly to form neat packages.
4. 4. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking. Place each stuffed cabbage roll seam-side down in rows.
5. 5. Pour remaining tomato sauce over the rolls and drizzle with additional lemon juice. Cover tightly with foil.
6. 6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for one hour. Remove foil during the last fifteen minutes for browning.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 roll (150g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: - For a healthier option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. - Add finely chopped vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to increase nutrition. - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.