Turkey Cabbage Rolls

Savor the Flavor: Turkey Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Turkey cabbage rolls are a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. Combining tender cabbage leaves with flavorful ground turkey and aromatic spices, this dish is a perfect balance of savory and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal to warm you up on a chilly evening or a healthy option to add to your weekly menu, these cabbage rolls are sure to please. Join us as we dive into the step-by-step process of creating this delicious dish, complete with helpful tips and variations to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

Meat

  • 1 lb Ground turkey

Produce

  • 2 cups Baby carrots
  • 16 Cabbage leaves (large)
  • 1/3 cup Onion

Refrigerated

  • 1 Egg

Canned Goods

  • 2/3 (6 ounce) can Tomato paste
  • 2 (8 ounce) cans Tomato sauce

Condiments

  • 2 tsp Lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Pasta & Grains

  • 1/2 cup White rice (long grain)

Baking & Spices

  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper, ground
  • 3 tbsp Brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp Salt

Oils & Vinegars

  • 2 tbsp Olive oil

Liquids

  • 2 cups Water

Instructions

Preparing the Cabbage Leaves

  1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
  2. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage head and place it in the boiling water.
  3. Allow the cabbage to cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the leaves are softened.
  4. Using tongs, gently remove the cabbage leaves from the pot and set them aside to cool.

Making the Filling

  1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent.
  3. Add ground turkey to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
  4. Stir in cooked rice, diced baby carrots, black pepper, salt, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  5. Remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
  6. Once cooled, add an egg to the filling mixture and mix well to combine.

Assembling the Rolls

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Take a cabbage leaf and place a spoonful of the turkey filling at the base of the leaf.
  3. Roll the leaf over the filling, tucking in the sides as you go, to form a tight roll.
  4. Place the cabbage roll seam-side down in a baking dish.
  5. Repeat the process with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.

Making the Sauce

  1. In a bowl, mix together tomato sauce, tomato paste, brown sugar, and water until well combined.
  2. Pour the sauce over the cabbage rolls in the baking dish, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Baking the Rolls

  1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
  2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cabbage rolls are heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
  3. Once done, remove the cabbage rolls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cook Notes and Variations

  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground turkey with cooked quinoa or lentils for a vegetarian version of this dish.
  • Gluten-Free: Replace the Worcestershire sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to make the recipe gluten-free.
  • Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for some extra heat.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the cabbage rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This makes for a convenient meal option during busy weekdays.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

Keto Turkey Cabbage Rolls

  • Omit the rice or replace it with cauliflower rice to reduce the carb content.
  • Use a low-carb sweetener instead of brown sugar in the sauce.
  • Increase the fat content by using full-fat cheese or adding avocado slices as a topping.

Low-Carb Turkey Cabbage Rolls

  • Follow the keto version adjustments, focusing on minimizing the carb content while still maintaining flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze turkey cabbage rolls?

A: Yes, turkey cabbage rolls freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bags. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in the oven until heated through.

Q: Can I use ground beef instead of ground turkey?

A: Absolutely! Ground beef can be used as a delicious alternative to ground turkey in this recipe. Feel free to use your preferred ground meat or even a mixture of both for added flavor.

Q: What can I serve with turkey cabbage rolls?

A: These rolls pair well with a side of mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also enjoy them with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.

Indulge in the comforting flavors of turkey cabbage rolls with this easy-to-follow recipe. Whether you’re seeking a wholesome family dinner or a flavorful meal prep option, these rolls are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. With simple ingredients and a burst of savory goodness in every bite, this dish is perfect for any occasion. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to savor the deliciousness of homemade turkey cabbage rolls!