Albanian Cabbage Rolls (Lakra të Mbushur)

Lakra të Mbushur, or Albanian Cabbage Rolls, are a traditional dish from the Arbëreshë cuisine, a unique blend of Albanian and Italian flavors. These cabbage rolls are filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and herbs, then simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce. They make for a comforting and satisfying meal that's perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Main Course Arbëreshë Albanian Cuisine Cabbage Rolls Arbresh Recipes
Albanian Cabbage Rolls (Lakra të Mbushur)

Ingredients

  • 1 large head of cabbage
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup uncooked rice
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef or vegetable broth

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head in the boiling water. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the outer leaves are tender. Remove the cabbage from the water and carefully peel off the softened leaves. Set aside to cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, uncooked rice, onion, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
  3. Take a cabbage leaf and place a small amount of the meat and rice mixture in the center. Roll the leaf, tucking in the sides as you go, to form a tight roll. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
  4. In a large pot, spread a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom. Place the cabbage rolls seam side down in the pot. Pour the remaining tomato sauce and broth over the rolls.
  5. Cover the pot and simmer over low heat for 1 hour, or until the cabbage rolls are cooked through and the rice is tender.
  6. Serve the cabbage rolls hot, spooning some of the tomato sauce over the top.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
20g
Carbohydrates
30g
Fat
15g

Supplies

Large pot Knife Large bowl Large pot for cooking the cabbage rolls

Tools

Cutting board Wooden spoon

Serving suggestions

Serve the cabbage rolls with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top. They pair well with a simple salad or crusty bread.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or mushrooms for a delicious meat-free alternative.

Cost

$15