Stuffed cabbage rolls, known as “Mahshi Malfouf” in Arabic cuisine, are a beloved dish throughout the Middle East. This recipe incorporates a flavorful mix of seasoned rice and ground meat rolled in cabbage leaves, creating a comforting and aromatic dish perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.
Time
- Preparation Time: 40 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Needed Equipment
- Large pot (for boiling cabbage leaves)
- Mixing bowl (for stuffing ingredients)
- Cooking pot (for layering and cooking cabbage rolls)
- Large spoon (for mixing)
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Tags
- Traditional
- Middle Eastern
- Comfort Food
- Family Meal
- Nutritious
Serving Size
- Serves 4–6 people
Difficulty Level
- Medium
Allergen Information
- Contains garlic
- May contain meat allergens (can be made with vegetarian substitutes)
Dietary Preference
- Can be adjusted for gluten-free and vegetarian preferences
Course
- Main Course
Cuisine
- Middle Eastern
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cabbage | 1 large head |
| Ground meat | 700 grams |
| Egyptian rice | 1 cup (short-grain) |
| Water | 1 ¼ cups (for rice) |
| Onion | 1 medium (chopped) |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tbsp (chopped) |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | ¼ tsp |
| Turmeric | ¼ tsp |
| Ground cumin | ¼ tsp |
| Garlic | 4 cloves (minced) |
| Additional water | 3 cups (for cooking) |
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage:
- Separate cabbage leaves gently, cutting larger leaves in half. Blanch in boiling water for 5 minutes to soften.
- Drain and remove any thick ribs to make rolling easier.
- Prepare the Stuffing:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, rice (drained), water, chopped onion, parsley, and minced garlic.
- Season with salt, black pepper, turmeric, and ground cumin. Mix until ingredients are well combined.
- Assemble the Rolls:
- Lay a cabbage leaf flat and add a spoonful of stuffing near one end. Fold the sides inward and roll the leaf tightly.
- Prepare the Cooking Pot:
- Place any leftover cabbage ribs at the bottom of a pot to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls in layers over the cabbage ribs. Pour additional water over the rolls.
- Cook the Rolls:
- Place a heavy plate over the rolls to hold them in place. Cover and cook on low heat for 45 minutes, then reduce to simmer for an additional 25 minutes until cooked.
- Serve:
- Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.
Preparation Tips
- Blanching the cabbage leaves makes them more pliable for rolling.
- Removing the cabbage ribs helps ensure the rolls stay intact during cooking.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 4g |
Tips and Tricks
- Use fresh, young cabbage for the best texture.
- For added flavor, you can cook the rolls in chicken broth instead of water.
Add-ons
- Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or parsley on top before serving.
- Serve with a side of yogurt for a creamy contrast.
Side Dishes
- Tabbouleh salad
- Pita bread
- Roasted vegetables
Improvements
- Try using brown rice for a healthier version.
- Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the stuffing for added flavor and texture.
Save and Store
- To Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- To Freeze: Freeze the stuffed cabbage rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
FAQ
- Can I use a vegetarian stuffing?
Yes, you can replace meat with chickpeas or mushrooms. - What’s the best way to reheat cabbage rolls?
Reheat in a covered pot on low heat with a splash of water or in the microwave.
Conclusion
Stuffed cabbage rolls are a satisfying and versatile dish that brings warmth to any meal. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Middle Eastern flavors or looking for a new family favorite, these rolls are sure to impress.
