🥬 Mediterranean Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Lahanodolmades-Style)

Tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling of herbed rice, lean meat, and aromatic spices, then gently simmered in a rich tomato sauce — these Mediterranean Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are pure comfort with a healthy twist.

This dish is inspired by traditional Eastern Mediterranean cooking, where stuffed vegetables are common, wholesome, and family-centered meals.

🌿 Why This Is Mediterranean-Inspired

✔ Lean protein (beef or turkey)
✔ Olive oil as the main fat
✔ Fresh herbs & simple spices
✔ Tomato-based sauce
✔ Balanced carbs, protein, and fiber

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

For the Cabbage

1 large green cabbage
Water for boiling

For the Filling

1 lb (450g) lean ground beef or turkey
½ cup uncooked rice (rinsed)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill (optional)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon cumin
Salt & black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Tomato Sauce

2 cups crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon tomato paste
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon oregano
½ cup water or broth
Juice of ½ lemon (optional)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Cabbage

Bring a large pot of water to boil.
Remove core from cabbage.
Carefully peel off whole leaves.
Boil leaves 2–3 minutes until softened.
Drain and set aside.

2️⃣ Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine:

Ground meat
Rice
Onion
Garlic
Herbs & spices
Olive oil

Mix until just combined (do not overmix).

3️⃣ Roll the Cabbage

Lay a cabbage leaf flat.
Add 2–3 tablespoons filling near the base.
Fold sides inward and roll tightly.
Repeat with remaining leaves.

4️⃣ Arrange & Add Sauce

Spread a little tomato sauce on the bottom of a large pot.
Place cabbage rolls seam-side down.
Mix remaining sauce ingredients and pour over rolls.

5️⃣ Cook

Cover and simmer on low for 45–60 minutes.
Rice should be tender and meat fully cooked.

6️⃣ Finish

Drizzle with lemon juice and extra olive oil before serving.

🍽 Serving Ideas

With plain Greek yogurt
Alongside cucumber tomato salad
With warm whole-grain bread
Over a small scoop of herbed quinoa

🥗 Nutritional Highlights

✔ Balanced protein and carbs
✔ High in fiber
✔ Rich in vitamin C & K
✔ Heart-healthy fats
✔ Naturally gluten-free

❓ Q & A

Q1: Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Replace meat with lentils, mushrooms, and chopped walnuts.

Q2: Can I bake instead of simmer?

Yes. Cover tightly and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 60–75 minutes.

Q3: Can I freeze cabbage rolls?

Absolutely. Freeze cooked rolls up to 3 months.

Q4: Why are my rolls tough?

They may need longer cooking time or the cabbage wasn’t softened enough.

Q5: Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but increase cooking time by about 15–20 minutes.

Q6: How long do leftovers last?

Up to 4 days refrigerated.