Introduction
Cabbage rolls are a classic comfort food that offers a delightful blend of flavors while delivering a hearty, nutritious meal. These savory bundles of goodness are perfect for family gatherings or meal prep, making them a versatile option for any occasion. The use of ground turkey and fresh vegetables adds a modern twist to this traditional dish, ensuring it’s not only delicious but also health-conscious.
As the cooler months approach, the craving for warm, satisfying meals grows stronger. Cozy Skillet Savory Turkey Cabbage Rolls evoke a sense of warmth and comfort, making them an ideal choice for fall and winter dining. With every bite, you’ll experience the rich flavors and wholesome ingredients that make this dish a true standout on your dinner table.
Recipe Overview
– Total Time: 1 hour
– Servings: 4
– Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium carrot, grated
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
1. Begin by carefully removing the core from the cabbage and boiling the head in a large pot of salted water for about 5 minutes, or until the leaves are pliable.
2. While the cabbage is boiling, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until translucent.
3. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, cooking until browned. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika.
4. Stir in the grated carrot, diced bell pepper, and cooked rice to the turkey mixture, combining well.
5. Once the cabbage leaves are ready, remove them from the pot and let them cool slightly. Carefully peel off 8-10 individual leaves.
6. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the turkey filling onto the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold the sides in and roll it up tightly.
7. In a large skillet, pour the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, mixing them together. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the skillet.
8. Cover the skillet and simmer on low heat for about 25-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Understanding Cabbage Rolls
Cabbage rolls, known in various cultures by different names, are a dish that has stood the test of time. These delicious bundles typically consist of blanched cabbage leaves filled with a mixture of meat, rice, and spices, then cooked in a savory sauce. Originating from Eastern European cuisine, cabbage rolls have been embraced worldwide, with each culture adding its unique flair to the recipe. Variations abound, from the use of different meats to diverse cooking methods, showcasing the dish’s adaptability and creativity.
Preparing the Cabbage
To create the perfect cabbage rolls, start by softening the cabbage leaves, which makes them easier to roll without tearing. Begin by removing the core of the cabbage and bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, carefully add the whole cabbage and blanch it for about 2-3 minutes, or until the outer leaves start to soften. Remove the cabbage from the pot and let it cool slightly before peeling off the outer leaves. This technique ensures that you have pliable leaves for easy rolling.
Making the Filling
The filling is where the magic happens. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, cooked rice (or quinoa for a low-carb option), chopped onions, minced garlic, and a variety of spices such as salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. For added flavor, consider incorporating finely chopped vegetables like carrots or bell peppers. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor.
Assembling the Rolls
When assembling the cabbage rolls, lay a softened cabbage leaf on a flat surface. Place a generous spoonful of the turkey filling at the base of the leaf, folding in the sides before rolling it tightly from the bottom up. Make sure to roll them snugly, but be careful not to overstuff, as this can lead to bursting during cooking. Repeat this process until all filling is used, creating a beautiful array of prepared rolls.
Browning the Rolls
Browning the rolls before simmering is a crucial step in developing deep flavors. In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the cabbage rolls seam-side down and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. This step not only adds a rich flavor but also helps the rolls hold their shape during the cooking process.
Adding Sauce
Once browned, it’s time to enhance the dish with a delicious sauce. Pour crushed tomatoes and chicken broth into the skillet, gently stirring to combine. This will create a savory base that seeps into the cabbage rolls as they cook, infusing them with moisture and flavor. Season the sauce with herbs like basil or oregano for an extra kick.
Simmering
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cover the skillet. Allow the cabbage rolls to simmer for about 30-40 minutes. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures that the turkey is cooked through. Check occasionally and add more broth if necessary to maintain moisture.
Serving
For a beautiful presentation, serve the cabbage rolls drizzled with the sauce from the skillet. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an added pop of color. These savory turkey cabbage rolls are best enjoyed hot, accompanied by a side of crusty bread or a light salad.
Nutritional Benefits
Cozy Skillet Savory Turkey Cabbage Rolls are not only comforting but also packed with nutritional benefits. Cabbage is low in calories yet high in fiber, promoting digestive health and providing essential vitamins. Turkey is a lean protein source, making this dish ideal for those focusing on high-protein diets. The variety of vegetables incorporated into the filling enhances the overall nutrient profile, making this a wholesome meal that fits well into various dietary preferences, including low-carb and gluten-free diets.
Serving Suggestions
To create a well-rounded meal, consider serving the cabbage rolls with a fresh garden salad or a light soup, such as minestrone or vegetable broth. A slice of homemade whole-grain bread pairs perfectly, offering a satisfying crunch alongside the tender rolls. For beverages, a crisp white wine or sparkling water with a twist of lemon can complement the dish beautifully.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best results, reheat the cabbage rolls in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep them moist. If you wish to freeze the rolls, do so before simmering. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and follow the cooking instructions.
Conclusion
Cozy Skillet Savory Turkey Cabbage Rolls are the epitome of comfort food, offering warmth and satisfaction in every bite. This dish not only brings people together but also promotes healthy eating with its nutritious ingredients. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, these rolls are versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. We encourage you to try making this recipe and explore your own variations to make it uniquely yours. Enjoy the comforting embrace of this delightful dish any day of the week!
Cozy Skillet Savory Turkey Cabbage Rolls
Ingredients
- 1.0 large head of cabbage
- 1.0 lb ground turkey
- 1.0 cup cooked rice
- 1.0 small onion, finely chopped
- 2.0 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.0 large carrot, grated
- 0.5 cup bell pepper, diced
- 0.9375 can crushed tomatoes
- 1.0 cup chicken broth
- 2.0 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1.0 tsp dried oregano
- 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
- 0.0 to taste Salt
- 0.0 to taste Pepper
- 2.0 tbsp olive oil
- 1.0 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage, then submerge the entire head in boiling water for about 4.0 minutes, or until the outer leaves are tender. Carefully peel away 8-10 leaves and set them aside to cool. Repeat if necessary with inner leaves until you reach the desired number of rolls.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, cooked rice, onion, garlic, grated carrot, diced bell pepper, parsley, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Assemble the Rolls: Take a cabbage leaf and place 0.125 to 0.1875 cups of the turkey filling at the base of the leaf. Fold in the sides and roll tightly away from you to secure the filling inside. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
- Brown the Rolls: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the cabbage rolls seam side down in the skillet and cook for 3.5 minutes until lightly browned. Avoid overcrowding the skillet; you may need to do this in batches.
- Add Sauce: Once the rolls are browned, carefully pour the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth over the rolls in the skillet. Drizzle with lemon juice and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Gently spoon some sauce over the top of the rolls.
- Simmer: Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the rolls simmer for about 27.5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the turkey to cook through. Check occasionally, adding a little extra broth if the sauce reduces too much.
- Serve: Once cooked, carefully plate the cabbage rolls and drizzle with additional sauce from the skillet. Garnish with extra parsley if desired. Enjoy your Cozy Skillet Savory Turkey Cabbage Rolls hot as a comforting meal!