Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Napa Cabbage Rolls! They’re not just any cabbage rolls; they’re a warm hug in food form! I absolutely adore how the tender Napa cabbage leaves wrap around a savory filling of ground pork and rice, creating a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor. This recipe is a delightful nod to Asian cuisine, and it’s become a staple in my home. The best part? They’re super easy to make, and you can customize the filling to your liking! Trust me, your family and friends will be asking for seconds (or thirds!). Get ready to fall in love with these delicious rolls!
Ingredients List
- 1 head Napa cabbage
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup tomato sauce
How to Prepare Napa Cabbage Rolls
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to a cozy 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab a large pot and fill it with water. You’ll want to bring it to a rolling boil because we’re going to blanch those lovely cabbage leaves soon!
Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage
Now, let’s work on the Napa cabbage! Carefully remove the core—this part can be a bit tricky, so take your time. Once that’s done, gently peel off the leaves. You should aim for about 12-15 leaves, depending on their size. It’s time to give those leaves a quick bath! Blanch them in the boiling water for just 2-3 minutes until they’re nice and soft. This step is crucial; it makes them pliable for rolling. After they’re soft, drain them and let them cool a bit. You don’t want to burn your fingers when rolling!
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine that delicious ground pork with the cooked rice, minced garlic, chopped onion, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. I like to get in there with my hands (just make sure they’re clean!) to mix everything until well combined. You want all those flavors to meld together beautifully. Give it a taste—adjust the seasoning if you feel it needs a little something extra!
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
Now for the fun part—assembling the rolls! Take a cabbage leaf and place a generous spoonful of the filling at the base. Roll it up tightly, tucking in the sides as you go to keep everything secure. It’s like wrapping a present, and trust me, the tighter you roll, the better they’ll hold together during baking. Place each roll seam-side down in your baking dish, creating a cozy little family of cabbage rolls.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Pour that luscious tomato sauce all over the cabbage rolls, making sure each one gets a good coating. Cover the dish with foil—this keeps everything nice and moist while baking. Pop it in the oven and let it bake for about 30-40 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the filling is cooked through and the flavors have melded beautifully. When they come out, let them sit for a minute before serving. These Napa cabbage rolls are best enjoyed hot, and they pair perfectly with a side of steamed rice or a fresh salad. Enjoy the deliciousness!
Nutritional Information
Just a little heads up—nutritional values can vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, keep in mind that these values are estimates. Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect per serving of these delightful Napa Cabbage Rolls:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 600mg
Remember, these rolls are not just tasty but also a good source of protein and can fit into a gluten-free diet, making them a great option for many! Enjoy your delicious and nutritious meal!
FAQ About Napa Cabbage Rolls
Can I use other types of cabbage?
Absolutely! While I love using Napa cabbage for its tender leaves and sweet flavor, you can also try savoy cabbage or even regular green cabbage. Just keep in mind that the texture might be a bit different. If you go with green cabbage, you may need to blanch the leaves a little longer to soften them up. But don’t worry, all cabbage can make a delicious roll!
How do I store leftover Napa Cabbage Rolls?
Storing leftovers is super easy! Just place any uneaten Napa Cabbage Rolls in an airtight container and stick them in the fridge. They should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the rolls. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll be good for up to 2 months! When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I make Napa Cabbage Rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can! If you’re planning for a busy day, these rolls are perfect for making ahead. You can assemble them and then store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just cover them with foil or plastic wrap to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven—no need to adjust the cooking time. They’ll be just as delicious as if you made them fresh!
Tips for Success
Let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure your Napa Cabbage Rolls turn out absolutely perfect! First off, when blanching the cabbage leaves, don’t rush it! If they’re not soft enough, they’ll crack when you try to roll them. A little extra time in that boiling water goes a long way!
Also, be mindful of how much filling you use. It’s tempting to overstuff, but trust me, a little goes a long way! If you pack too much in, the rolls might burst during baking, and nobody wants that. Just a generous spoonful at the base of each leaf will do the trick!
And here’s a tip that’s saved me more than once: if you find that your rolls are falling apart while baking, don’t panic! Just add a little more sauce on top to keep them moist, and they’ll hold together better. Plus, who doesn’t love extra sauce?
Lastly, flavor is key! Don’t hesitate to taste your filling before rolling. If it needs a pinch more salt or a dash of soy sauce, go for it! You want those flavors to shine through in every bite. Happy rolling!
Variations to Try
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up these Napa Cabbage Rolls! Here are a few of my favorites:
- Ground Beef or Chicken: Swap out the ground pork for ground beef or chicken for a different flavor profile. Both options work beautifully!
- Vegetarian Delight: For a plant-based twist, use a mixture of mushrooms, tofu, and veggies like bell peppers or carrots. Just sauté them first for a burst of flavor!
- Spicy Kick: Add some heat by mixing in chopped jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the filling. It’ll bring a delightful zing to your rolls!
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil in the filling for a fresh, aromatic touch. It’s a wonderful way to brighten the dish!
- Quinoa or Barley: Instead of rice, try using quinoa or barley for a nutty flavor and added texture. It’s a great way to make these rolls even more nutritious!
- Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle some shredded cheese into the filling or on top of the rolls before baking for a gooey, melty layer that’s hard to resist!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas based on what you have on hand or what you love. The beauty of these cabbage rolls is their versatility, so let your creativity shine!
Serving Suggestions
These Napa Cabbage Rolls are so delicious on their own, but if you want to elevate your meal, here are some fantastic pairings that will complement their savory goodness:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fluffy bed of jasmine rice is perfect for soaking up the flavorful tomato sauce. It adds a lovely balance to the dish!
- Crispy Asian Salad: A refreshing salad with crunchy veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers drizzled with a sesame dressing will add a nice crunch and brightness to your plate. Check out this Asian slaw recipe!
- Sweet and Sour Pickles: The tangy crunch of pickled vegetables is a delightful contrast to the warm, savory rolls. They’ll add that extra zing!
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup on the side is comforting and complements the flavors of the rolls beautifully. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up!
- Grilled Corn: Some grilled corn on the cob, brushed with a little butter and sprinkled with salt, brings a sweet and smoky element that pairs wonderfully.
- Spicy Sriracha Sauce: For those who love a little heat, serving these rolls with a side of sriracha or chili garlic sauce will take them to the next level!
Mix and match these sides based on your mood or the occasion, and watch your family and friends dig in with delight! Enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Napa Cabbage Rolls: 5 Comforting Ways to Savor Love
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Napa cabbage rolls filled with a savory mixture of meat and rice.
Ingredients
- 1 head Napa cabbage
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup tomato sauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring a large pot of water to boil.
- Remove the core of the Napa cabbage and carefully peel off the leaves.
- Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until soft.
- In a bowl, combine ground pork, cooked rice, garlic, onion, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place a spoonful of the mixture onto each cabbage leaf and roll tightly.
- Place the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Pour tomato sauce over the rolls.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30-40 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Use any ground meat of your choice.
- For a vegetarian option, use plant-based meat or mushrooms.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Napa Cabbage Rolls, Cabbage Recipes, Asian Cuisine