Dolma (savory Stuffed Cabbage Rolls)

Dolma is a traditional dish in Gagauz cuisine, consisting of savory stuffed cabbage rolls. This recipe is a delicious combination of flavorful ground meat, rice, and aromatic herbs, all wrapped in tender cabbage leaves.

Dolma (savory Stuffed Cabbage Rolls)

Ingredients

  • 1 large head of cabbage
  • 1 lb ground meat (beef or lamb)
  • 1 cup uncooked rice
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the outer leaves of the cabbage and blanch them in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes, until they are pliable. Remove and set aside.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, uncooked rice, chopped onion, fresh herbs, tomato paste, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
  3. Place a spoonful of the meat and rice mixture onto each cabbage leaf, then fold the sides in and roll them up tightly.
  4. Place the stuffed cabbage rolls in a large pot, seam side down. Pour the broth over the rolls, cover the pot, and simmer over low heat for 1 hour, or until the rice is fully cooked.
  5. Once cooked, remove the dolma from the pot and serve hot. Enjoy!

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
300 per serving
Protein
15g
Carbohydrates
25g
Fat
15g

Supplies

Large pot Mixing bowl Sharp knife

Tools

Cutting board Wooden spoon

Serving suggestions

Serve the dolma with a dollop of yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, you can replace the ground meat with cooked lentils or mushrooms.

Cost

$15