If you’re craving a hearty dinner that will wrap you in a warm hug, look no further than these Easy Russian Chicken and Cabbage Rolls with Fresh Veggies (Golubtsi). They’re a delightful mix of juicy ground chicken and vibrant veggies, all snugly enveloped in tender cabbage leaves.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Filling: Each bite is packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of veggies, keeping you satisfied longer.
- Customizable: Perfect for experimenting with different fillings, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make these rolls ahead of time since they reheat beautifully, making them a smart choice for busy weeks.
- Comfort Food: The rich flavors and warm, cozy vibe make it a go-to comfort dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for these Easy Russian Chicken and Cabbage Rolls with Fresh Veggies (Golubtsi) are simple and essential. Each component plays a role in building layers of flavor and texture, from the savory chicken to the vibrant vegetables.
- Ground chicken: Choose ground thighs for juiciness and depth of flavor.
- White rice: Cooked and mixed into the filling to provide texture and a hint of nuttiness.
- Onion: Both grated into the meat and chopped for the sauce to add a sweet, mellow flavor.
- Red bell pepper: Adds color and a slightly sweet crunch.
- Large head of cabbage: The natural “wrap” for our delicious filling.
- Carrots: Grated into the sauce for sweetness and a bit of texture.
- Olive oil: Enhances the softness and flavor of sautéed veggies.
Variations
These Easy Russian Chicken and Cabbage Rolls with Fresh Veggies (Golubtsi) are wonderfully versatile. Try swapping or adding ingredients to suit your dietary needs or to explore new flavors!
- Meat Varieties: Substitute chicken with pork, beef, or lamb for a different protein profile.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with lentils or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick.
How to Make Easy Russian Chicken and Cabbage Rolls with Fresh Veggies (Golubtsi)
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Begin by boiling a large head of cabbage in a pot for about one hour. Remember to carve out the core before boiling to ensure every leaf becomes perfectly pliable for wrapping.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine your ground chicken with grated onion, cooked rice, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Mix well. This is your savory, mouthwatering filling!
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Gently separate the cabbage leaves and place a generous tablespoon of filling on each. Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly, similar to an egg roll, securing all that goodness inside.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a pan, soften chopped onions in olive oil before adding grated carrots and red bell pepper. Stir in tomato paste, sautéing briefly to deepen the flavors and create a rich, vibrant sauce.
Step 5: Cook the Rolls
Layer the cabbage rolls in a pot, pour your sauce over them, and add just enough boiling water to cover everything. Bring to a boil, then simmer on low for an hour. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
Pro Tips for Making Easy Russian Chicken and Cabbage Rolls with Fresh Veggies (Golubtsi)
- Optimal Boiling: Ensure the cabbage is fully softened by boiling for the full hour, making rolling easier.
- Flavor Boost: Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the filling for an umami punch.
- Efficient Rolling: Cut large cabbage leaves in half to manage size and achieve consistent rolls.
How to Serve Easy Russian Chicken and Cabbage Rolls with Fresh Veggies (Golubtsi)
Garnishes
Top your golubtsi with a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle freshly chopped dill on top. These additions provide a creamy, fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the rolls.
Side Dishes
Pair these rolls with a simple green salad or creamy mashed potatoes to complement their hearty nature. A crusty piece of bread also pairs well for sopping up extra sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Present your Easy Russian Chicken and Cabbage Rolls with Fresh Veggies (Golubtsi) on a large platter, alternating rows for a visually stunning display. Adding slices of roasted pepper on top enhances the color palette and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This allows the flavors to continue melding, often tasting even better the next day.
Freezing
Freeze the rolls before or after cooking. Wrap them individually in plastic, place in a sealed container, and store for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth or water helps maintain moisture.
FAQs
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Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in the recipe?
Yes, you can swap in cooked brown rice for a healthier, whole grain option without sacrificing flavor.
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What is the best way to ensure my cabbage leaves don’t tear?
Be gentle when separating the leaves and consider boiling the cabbage a bit longer if needed. Cut away thicker veins to prevent resistance while rolling.
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Is there a vegetarian filling alternative?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with a mix of mushrooms, lentils, or tofu for a satisfying vegetarian twist.
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How do I make the rolls spicier?
Add finely chopped chili peppers to the filling or incorporate a dash of hot paprika into the mix.
Final Thoughts
These Easy Russian Chicken and Cabbage Rolls with Fresh Veggies (Golubtsi) are not just a meal, but a comforting experience waiting for you to dive in. Try making a batch and gather around with friends or family, embracing the warmth and richness they generously offer.
Print
Easy Russian Chicken and Cabbage Rolls with Fresh Veggies (Golubtsi) Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Russian
- Diet: None
Description
This delicious and hearty Russian chicken and cabbage rolls recipe, also known as Golubtsi, features tender ground chicken wrapped in soft cabbage leaves and cooked in a flavorful tomato and vegetable sauce. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, it combines fresh ingredients with simple cooking techniques for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients
Cabbage Rolls:
- 2 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup white rice, cooked
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tsp tomato paste
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 large head cabbage
For the sauce:
- 2 carrots, grated
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken thighs with grated onion, cooked rice, salt, black pepper, and 2 teaspoons of tomato paste. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Boil the cabbage: Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the head of cabbage and submerge the whole cabbage in boiling water for about 1 hour or until the leaves are soft. Carefully peel off each leaf, trimming the hard stem if needed. If a leaf is too large, cut in half.
- Assemble the rolls: Place about 1 tablespoon of meat mixture on each cabbage leaf. Fold the sides over the filling and roll up tightly like an egg roll. Place the prepared rolls seam-side down in a Dutch oven or large pot. If you run out of leaves, form the remaining mixture into meatballs and add them on top of the rolls.
- Make the sauce: In a pan, heat 2 Tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for 2 minutes. Add grated carrots and cook for another 2 minutes. Stir in chopped red bell pepper and 2 Tbsp of tomato paste, sautéing for an additional 3-4 minutes. Pour the sautéed vegetables over the cabbage rolls in the pot.
- Cook the dish: Bring a kettle of water to a boil and add enough boiling water to the pot to just cover the cabbage rolls. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 1 hour. Serve hot.
Notes
- If remaining cabbage leaves are too small or scarce, you can use extra meat mixture to make additional meatballs as pictured in the recipe.
- Feel free to substitute ground beef, pork, lamb, or a mix of meats for the chicken, based on your preference.
- This dish pairs well with fresh herbs like dill or parsley, added before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (approx.)
- Calories: 312 kcal
- Sugar: 11 g
- Sodium: 163 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 54 mg
