Traditional Hungarian stuffed cabbage (töltött káposzta)🇭🇺
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Cabbage
If using fresh cabbage: core and blanch leaves in boiling water until soft.
If using sour cabbage: separate leaves gently.
2️⃣ Make the Filling
Mix ground meat, rice, onion, egg, paprika, salt, pepper, and marjoram until combined.
3️⃣ Stuff the Cabbage
Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each leaf.
Fold in the sides and roll tightly, like a burrito.
4️⃣ Prepare the Sauce
In a large pot, heat oil and lightly sauté tomato paste (and paprika if desired).
Layer a bit of sauerkraut on the bottom.
Place stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in the pot.
Add bacon/smoked sausage slices if using.
Pour water or broth to cover about halfway.
Sprinkle additional paprika, salt, and pepper.
5️⃣ Cook
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
Cover and simmer 1–1.5 hours, until cabbage and meat are tender.
✨ Serve
Serve hot with sour cream on top.
Pair with mashed potatoes, rye bread, or a fresh salad.
Tips
✔ Make ahead: the flavors deepen if cooked overnight. ✔ Adjust sourness: balance with sugar or extra sauerkraut juice. ✔ For a lighter version, skip bacon/sausage and use lean meat. ✔ Rice can be pre-cooked slightly for faster cooking.
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