Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Rice and Meat (Lahana Dolması)

Lahana Dolması is a traditional Crimean Tatar dish that consists of tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice and meat. This dish is a beloved part of Crimean Tatar cuisine and is often served at family gatherings and special occasions.

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Rice and Meat (Lahana Dolması)

Ingredients

  • 1 head of cabbage
  • 1 cup of rice
  • 500g ground beef or lamb
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon of paprika
  • 1 teaspoon of cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups of tomato juice
  • 2 cups of beef or vegetable broth

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the cabbage leaves, keeping them as whole as possible. Blanch the leaves in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then remove and set aside to cool.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the rice, ground meat, onion, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
  3. Place a spoonful of the meat and rice mixture onto each cabbage leaf, then roll them up, tucking in the sides to create neat rolls.
  4. Place the stuffed cabbage rolls in a large pot. Pour the tomato juice and broth over the rolls, ensuring they are fully submerged.
  5. Cover the pot and simmer over medium heat for 1 hour, or until the rice is fully cooked and the meat is tender.
  6. Once cooked, remove the stuffed cabbage rolls from the pot and serve hot.

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
12g

Supplies

Large pot Mixing bowl Cooking spoon Knife Cutting board

Tools

Pot with lid Serving platter

Serving suggestions

Serve the Lahana Dolması with a dollop of yogurt or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

To make the cabbage leaves easier to roll, you can carefully remove the tough center rib from each leaf before blanching.

Cost

$15