Hungarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Töltött Káposzta)

Töltött Káposzta, or Hungarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, is a classic dish that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy family dinner. This traditional Hungarian recipe features tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and aromatic spices, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce.

Hungarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Töltött Káposzta)

Ingredients

  • 1 large head of cabbage
  • 1 lb 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
  • 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 softened. Remove the cabbage from the water and let it cool.
  2. In a bowl, combine the ground pork, cooked rice, onion, garlic, paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  3. Carefully peel off the softened cabbage leaves and trim the thick center stem. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture onto each leaf and roll it up, tucking in the sides as you go.
  4. Place the stuffed cabbage rolls seam side down in a large pot. Pour the tomato sauce and broth over the rolls. Cover and simmer over low heat for 1.5-2 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
  5. Serve the Töltött Káposzta hot, spooning some of the tomato sauce over each roll.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
2 hours
Total time:
2 hours
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

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

Supplies

Large pot Bowl Knife Cutting board Large pot for cooking

Tools

Spoon Tongs Cooking twine (optional)

Serving suggestions

Serve the Töltött Káposzta with a dollop of sour cream and a side of crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground pork with a mix of cooked lentils and mushrooms for a delicious meat-free alternative.

Cost

$15