Bohemian Cabbage Rolls (České zelí závitky)

České zelí závitky, also known as Bohemian Cabbage Rolls, are a traditional Czech dish that combines savory ground meat and rice filling wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Main Course Czech Czech Cuisine Cabbage Rolls Traditional Recipe
Bohemian Cabbage Rolls (České zelí závitky)

Ingredients

  • 1 large head of cabbage
  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

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 softened. Remove the cabbage from the water and carefully peel off the softened leaves. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
  3. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture onto each cabbage leaf. Roll the leaf around the filling, tucking in the sides as you roll, to create a neat package.
  4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Place the cabbage rolls seam side down in the pot and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
  5. Pour the crushed tomatoes and broth over the cabbage rolls. Cover the pot and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
  6. Serve the České zelí závitky hot, spooning 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
320 per serving
Protein
18g
Carbohydrates
25g
Fat
15g

Supplies

Large pot Knife Bowl Large pot or Dutch oven

Tools

Cutting board Wooden spoon Cooking tongs Cooking pot with lid

Serving suggestions

Serve the České zelí závitky with a dollop of sour cream and a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, replace the ground pork with a mixture of cooked mushrooms, lentils, and quinoa.

Cost

$15