These Swedish-style cabbage rolls are a comforting, hearty dish that requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. Lean ground beef is mixed with fluffy cooked rice, egg, and seasonings, then wrapped in tender cabbage leaves. The rolls are nestled in a slow cooker and smothered in a savory sauce made from tomato sauce, brown sugar, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. As they cook low and slow, the flavors meld together, resulting in tender meat and soft cabbage. This dish is an excellent choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It&# 226;ÂÂs versatile enough to be served with mashed potatoes, bread, or simply on its own. The balance of sweet and tangy notes makes it a crowd-pleaser that warms the soul.
Swedish Cabbage Rolls/Crockpot
Description
These Swedish-style cabbage rolls are a comforting, hearty dish that requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. Lean ground beef is mixed with fluffy cooked rice, egg, and seasonings, then wrapped in tender cabbage leaves. The rolls are nestled in a slow cooker and smothered in a savory sauce made from tomato sauce, brown sugar, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. As they cook low and slow, the flavors meld together, resulting in tender meat and soft cabbage. This dish is an excellent choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It&# 226;ÂÂs versatile enough to be served with mashed potatoes, bread, or simply on its own. The balance of sweet and tangy notes makes it a crowd-pleaser that warms the soul.Ingredients
Directions
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Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add cabbage leaves and blanch for 3 minutes until limp but still intact. Remove with tongs and drain.
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In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, beaten egg, milk, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and cooked rice. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
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Place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture in the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly to enclose.
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Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the bottom of a slow cooker.
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In a separate small bowl, whisk together the tomato sauce, brown sugar, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce.
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Pour the sauce evenly over the cabbage rolls in the slow cooker.
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Cover and cook on Low for 7 to 9 hours, or until the meat is cooked through and the cabbage is tender.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 304.9kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8.3g13%
- Saturated Fat 3.2g16%
- Cholesterol 57.7mg20%
- Sodium 3725.6mg156%
- Total Carbohydrate 30.7g11%
- Dietary Fiber 6.4g26%
- Sugars 12.2g
- Protein 26.2g53%
* 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
Use the outer leaves of the cabbage as they are larger and more robust for rolling. If leaves are too small, you can use two overlapping leaves.
For easier rolling, you can trim the thick central vein from the cabbage leaves if it is too bulky.
This dish freezes well. Allow to cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
You can substitute ground pork or a mix of beef and pork for a richer flavor, which is traditional in some Swedish households.
