Filipino-Inspired Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Ingredients

While the original Prisiljeno zelje is traditionally made with sauerkraut and smoked meat, this Filipino-inspired version replaces sauerkraut with fresh cabbage leaves and incorporates Filipino flavors. The filling is a combination of ground meat, rice, and aromatic spices, giving it a distinct Filipino taste. Additionally, the tomato sauce used in this recipe adds a tangy element that complements the flavors of the cabbage rolls. We alse have the original recipe for Prisiljeno zelje, so you can check it out.

• 1 large head of cabbage 1 large head of cabbage
• 500g ground meat (beef or pork) 500g ground meat (beef or pork)
• 1 cup cooked rice 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, grated 1 carrot, grated
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce 1 teaspoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups beef or vegetable broth 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 400 kcal / 1674 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head in the boiling water. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the outer leaves are tender and pliable. Remove the cabbage from the pot and carefully peel off the leaves, setting them aside.
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, onion, garlic, carrot, soy sauce, fish sauce, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. 3.
   Take a cabbage leaf and place a spoonful of the meat mixture in the center. Roll the leaf tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
4. 4.
   In a large pot, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef or vegetable broth. Season with salt to taste. Place the cabbage rolls in the pot, seam side down, making sure they are submerged in the sauce.
5. 5.
   Bring the pot to a simmer over medium heat. Cover and cook for 45-60 minutes, or until the cabbage rolls are tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. 6.
   Serve the Filipino-inspired stuffed cabbage rolls hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro. Enjoy with steamed rice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cabbage — Choose a large head of cabbage with firm leaves. Boiling the cabbage briefly will make it easier to remove the leaves without tearing.
• Ground meat — Use lean ground meat for a healthier option. You can also mix different types of ground meat for added flavor.
• Rice — Cook the rice beforehand and let it cool completely before adding it to the filling. This will prevent the filling from becoming mushy.

Tips & Tricks

• To prevent the cabbage leaves from tearing, gently remove them from the head while they are still warm.
• If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the filling.
• For a vegetarian version, replace the ground meat with cooked lentils or mushrooms.
• Leftover cabbage rolls can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day. The flavors will have further developed, making them even more delicious.
• Serve the cabbage rolls with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for added creaminess.

Serving advice

Serve the Filipino-inspired stuffed cabbage rolls hot, accompanied by steamed rice. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cabbage rolls on a platter, placing them seam side down to showcase their beautiful shape. Drizzle some of the tomato sauce over the rolls and garnish with fresh herbs for an appetizing presentation.