Grandma’s Holopchi (Cabbage Rolls)
Recipe Overview
Cabbage rolls, known as Holopchi, are a cherished family dish that evokes memories of gatherings filled with love and laughter. This hearty recipe combines tender cabbage leaves with a flavorful filling of ground beef and rice, all drenched in a rich cream sauce. While this dish is indulgent, it’s the kind of comfort food that is well worth every calorie. Perfect for potlucks or family reunions, Holopchi is a dish that always brings everyone together at the table.
Recipe Details
| Preparation Time | 1 hour |
|---|---|
| Cooking Time | 1 hour |
| Total Time | 2 hours |
| Yield | 2 small casserole dishes |
| Category | White Rice |
| Keywords | Rice, Potluck, Oven, < 4 Hours, Inexpensive |
Ingredients
This recipe serves 2 small casserole dishes of delightful Holopchi. The ingredients are straightforward and easily accessible, ensuring that you can recreate this beloved family recipe in your own kitchen.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| White rice | 2 cups |
| Cabbage | 2-3 heads |
| Bacon (cooked and chopped) | 1-2 strips |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Pepper | To taste |
| Whipping cream | As needed |
Nutritional Information
Holopchi is a filling and calorie-rich dish, making it an occasional treat for special gatherings. Below are the approximate nutritional values per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2191.1 |
| Total Fat | 129 g |
| Saturated Fat | 71.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 499.4 mg |
| Sodium | 370.7 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 193 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.5 g |
| Sugars | 22.6 g |
| Protein | 68.9 g |
Instructions
Creating Grandma’s Holopchi requires a bit of patience and love, but the end result is incredibly rewarding. Follow these steps carefully to bring this comforting dish to your table:
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Prepare the Cabbage: Begin by boiling a whole cabbage head in a large pot of water. This will help soften the leaves, making them easier to roll. If you prefer a quicker method, consider freezing the cabbage heads overnight; the freezing process will soften the leaves as well.
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Cook the Rice: While the cabbage is boiling, rinse the white rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then cook the rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, set aside to cool slightly.
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Combine the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef and chopped cooked bacon with the cooled rice. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring that every bite is flavorful.
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Prepare the Cabbage Leaves: Once the cabbage leaves are soft, carefully peel them off the head. Using a sharp knife, trim the top of the spines on each leaf to flatten them, making it easier to roll.
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Roll the Cabbage: Take a cabbage leaf and place a teaspoon or two of the rice and meat filling at the base of the leaf. Roll it up tightly, tucking in the sides to secure the filling, similar to making a burrito. Repeat this process with the remaining leaves and filling.
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Assemble in Casserole Dishes: Line the bottom of each casserole dish with any leftover cabbage leaves. Place the rolled cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dishes, arranging them snugly together. This not only ensures they hold their shape but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully during baking.
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Add Cream: Once the dishes are full, generously pour whipping cream over the top of the cabbage rolls, ensuring they are well-coated. This will add a rich and creamy flavor as they bake.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole dishes with aluminum foil or extra cabbage leaves to prevent the tops from burning. Bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the cream has evaporated, and the tops of the cabbage leaves are golden brown.
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Serve and Enjoy: After baking, remove the dishes from the oven and carefully lift off the top layer of cabbage leaves. Serve the Holopchi warm, allowing everyone to enjoy the delightful combination of flavors that this family recipe offers.
Final Thoughts
Grandma’s Holopchi are more than just cabbage rolls; they are a comforting dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and joyous occasions. Whether you’re serving them at a potluck or enjoying them during a family meal, these cabbage rolls are sure to become a beloved addition to your own family traditions. So gather your loved ones, create this delicious dish, and share the warmth of homemade goodness.
