Lithuanian Cabbage Rolls (Balandėliai)

Balandėliai, also known as Lithuanian Cabbage Rolls, are a traditional Northern European dish that features a flavorful filling wrapped in tender cabbage leaves. This recipe is a comforting and hearty meal that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Main Course Northern European Lithuanian Cuisine Cabbage Rolls Stuffed Cabbage Comfort Food
Lithuanian Cabbage Rolls (Balandėliai)

Ingredients

  • 1 large head of cabbage
  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 can (14 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Carefully place the whole head of cabbage into the boiling water and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the outer leaves are tender. Remove the cabbage from the water and let it cool. Gently peel off the softened leaves and set them aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, cooked rice, chopped onion, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
  3. Take a cabbage leaf and place a spoonful of the pork mixture in the center. Roll the leaf, tucking in the sides, to create a neat roll. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, brown sugar, and lemon juice to create the sauce.
  5. Place the cabbage rolls in a large pot and pour the sauce over them. Cover the pot and simmer over low heat for 1 hour, or until the cabbage rolls are cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
  6. Serve the Balandėliai hot, with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

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
Carbohydrates
25g
Protein
15g
Fat
15g

Supplies

Large pot Knife Bowl Measuring cups and spoons Large pot for cooking the rolls

Tools

Cutting board Stove

Serving suggestions

Serving suggestions: Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill on top.

Tips & tricks

Tips: You can make the cabbage rolls ahead of time and reheat them before serving for a quick and convenient meal.

Cost

$15