Holubtsi, also known as holubky, is a traditional Ukrainian dish made of cabbage leaves stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, rice, and sometimes vegetables1. The cabbage rolls are baked in a tomato-based sauce and served with sour cream. For a healthier option,
You can serve Holubtsi with yogurt instead. The word “holubtsi” is derived from the Ukrainian word “holub” which means dove or pigeon, hence the dish’s nickname “little doves”. This dish has many variations, but in general, the filling is always enriched with grain and flavored with vegetables3. It’s a hearty and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish.
History
Holubtsi, also known as cabbage rolls, have a history that spans centuries in Eastern Europe, particularly in Ukraine. The dish is believed to have originated from ancient times when Slavic tribes inhabited the region.
Cabbage, a staple vegetable in Eastern European cuisine, was readily available and easy to cultivate, making it a common ingredient in many dishes. The practice of rolling cooked grains or meat in cabbage leaves likely evolved as a way to preserve food, as cabbage provided a natural casing for the filling.
Over time, holubtsi became a beloved traditional dish in Ukrainian cuisine, enjoyed by families during holidays, celebrations, and everyday meals. The filling for holubtsi can vary regionally and seasonally, but it typically consists of a mixture of rice or grains, ground meat (such as pork, beef, or lamb), onions, and spices.
Holubtsi hold cultural significance in Ukrainian culinary heritage, symbolizing warmth, comfort, and hospitality. Today, they remain a cherished part of Ukrainian cuisine, passed down through generations and enjoyed by people around the world as a delicious and comforting dish.
Ukrainian Cabbage Rolls (Holubtsi)
Ingredients
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cut out the core of the cabbage and carefully peel off 12 large leaves. Blanch the leaves in the boiling water for a few minutes, until soft and pliable. Drain and set aside.
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In a large bowl, mix the pork, rice, cranberries, half of the diced onion, and salt and pepper to taste. This is the filling for the cabbage rolls.
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Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. To assemble the rolls, place about 1/4 cup of the filling on the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold the sides over, and roll up tightly. Place the rolls seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
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In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the tomato sauce, chicken broth, flour, butter, and dill. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally. Pour the sauce evenly over the cabbage rolls, making sure they are well coated.
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Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
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Serve the cabbage rolls hot, with sour cream on the side. Enjoy!
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 321kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20g31%
- Saturated Fat 8g40%
- Sodium 680mg29%
- Potassium 514mg15%
- Total Carbohydrate 15g5%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 4g
- Vitamin A 262 IU
- Vitamin C 50 mg
- Calcium 71 mg
- Iron 3 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Choice of meat depends on personal preference and availability. You can also make vegetarian holubtsi with mushrooms instead of meat
