Verza Ripiena Napoletana (neapolitan-style Stuffed Cabbage)

Verza Ripiena Napoletana, or Neapolitan-style Stuffed Cabbage, is a classic dish from the vibrant and flavorful Neapolitan cuisine. This hearty and comforting dish features tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a savory filling, then simmered in a rich tomato sauce. It's a perfect choice for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends.

Vegetarian Gluten Free Main Course Neapolitan Neapolitan Cuisine Stuffed Cabbage Italian Recipe
Verza Ripiena Napoletana (neapolitan-style Stuffed Cabbage)

Ingredients

  • 1 head of cabbage
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1/2 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove the outer leaves of the cabbage and blanch them in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes, or until they are pliable. Remove and set aside to cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, ground beef, ground pork, onion, garlic, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  3. Place a spoonful of the meat and rice mixture onto each cabbage leaf. Roll the leaves, tucking in the sides, to form neat rolls.
  4. In a large pot, spread a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom. Place the stuffed cabbage rolls in the pot, seam side down. Pour the remaining tomato sauce and broth over the rolls.
  5. Cover and simmer over low heat for 1 hour, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
18g
Carbohydrates
25g
Fat
20g

Supplies

Large pot Knife Bowl Large pot for cooking

Tools

Cutting board Wooden spoon Cooking twine (optional)

Serving suggestions

Serve the Verza Ripiena Napoletana with a side of crusty bread and a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground meat with cooked lentils or mushrooms for a delicious alternative.

Cost

$15