As I stood over a bubbling pot of rich tomato sauce, the enticing aroma wrapped around me like a warm hug, I couldn’t help but feel nostalgic. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Yebra), a dish that encapsulates the heart of Lebanese hospitality. These delightful rolls, filled with tender cabbage leaves and a spiced mixture of meat and rice, are perfect for those cozy family dinners or lively gatherings with friends. Not only are they easy to customize—whether you prefer a vegetarian twist with lentils or a lighter version using turkey—but they also make fantastic leftovers, meaning you can relish these flavors for days to come. So, are you ready to dive into this savory adventure?
Why are Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls special?
Deliciously Unique: The blend of spiced meat and rice enveloped in tender cabbage leaves creates an irresistible flavor combo.
Customization Galore: Whether you’re in the mood for a vegetarian feast or a lighter turkey twist, this recipe adapts to your cravings.
Comforting Aroma: As it simmers, the rich tomato sauce fills your kitchen with scents that remind you of home.
Perfect for Gatherings: These rolls are a showstopper on any table, embodying the essence of Lebanese hospitality.
Make-Ahead Magic: Freeze extra rolls for quick meals – like when you crave comfort but lack time.
If you’re looking for other delightful meals, check out my Cinnamon Rolls Homemade or the indulgent Churro Stuffed French toast for a sweet twist!
Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Ingredients
• Let’s gather the essentials for making these heartwarming rolls!
For the Cabbage Rolls
- Cabbage – Use large, fresh leaves for the best wrap, but thawed frozen leaves work too.
- Ground Lamb or Beef – Essential for the filling; try lean turkey for a healthier choice.
- Rice – Serves as the backbone of the mixture, offering great texture; brown rice boosts nutritional value.
- Onions – Essential for flavor; yellow or white onions are ideal, but shallots can add sweetness.
- Middle Eastern Spices (Allspice, Cinnamon, Black Pepper) – Adds depth; feel free to adjust for personal taste.
For the Sauce
- Tomato Sauce – The flavorful base that envelops the rolls; homemade or low-sodium options are healthier.
Optional Ingredients
- Pine Nuts – Adds a delightful crunch; toast them for extra flavor.
- Raisins – Introduce a touch of sweetness to the filling; perfect balance with savory spices.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens up the mixture with acidity; a little goes a long way!
Let your love for cooking shine through as you make these Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, and savor the wonderful combinations of flavor!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Step 1: Preparing Cabbage Leaves
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the cabbage. Blanch the leaves for 2-3 minutes until they become soft and pliable. Using tongs, transfer the blanched leaves into a bowl of ice water to halt cooking and maintain their vibrant color. Once cooled, gently pat them dry and set aside while you prepare the filling for your Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls.
Step 2: Making the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb or beef with rinsed rice, diced onions, and your favorite Middle Eastern spices like allspice and cinnamon. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until they are evenly distributed, creating a flavorful filling. Don’t forget to incorporate any optional ingredients like pine nuts or raisins for added texture and sweetness, which will enhance the overall richness of the Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls.
Step 3: Forming Rolls
Lay one softened cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling at the base of the leaf, fold in the sides, and roll tightly from the base up to the top, securing the filling inside. Repeat this process for the remaining leaves and filling, ensuring each roll is snugly packed to keep the flavors intact during cooking.
Step 4: Cooking in Sauce
In a deep pot, layer the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down, packing them closely together. Pour the tomato sauce over the top until all rolls are covered. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then cover and cook on low heat for 45-60 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while the rolls cook thoroughly, transforming the cabbage into a tender, savory delight.
Step 5: Serving
Once cooked, let your Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls rest for a few minutes before serving. Plate them warm and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired. These rolls pair wonderfully with a refreshing cucumber and yogurt salad or a side of steamed rice, making your meal not only delicious but a beautiful presentation for family and friends.
Make Ahead Options
These Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling—mixing ground meat, rice, onions, and spices—up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the fridge. Additionally, you can form the rolls and refrigerate them for up to 3 days before cooking. Just be sure to keep them covered with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, transfer your uncooked rolls to a pot, cover with tomato sauce, and simmer as directed for a comforting, homemade meal that’s just as delicious as fresh.
What to Serve with Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
The beauty of these tender rolls extends beyond their rich flavors; the right accompaniments will elevate your meal experience to new heights.
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Cucumber-Yogurt Salad: A refreshing bite that balances the spices in the rolls while adding a cool creaminess.
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Steamed Rice: Fluffy rice serves as a nice base to soak up the delicious tomato sauce, enhancing the meal’s heartiness.
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Pita Bread: Perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce; warm, pillowy pita complements the meal beautifully.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add sweetness and texture, rounding out the savory flavors of the rolls.
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Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the dish, intensifying the flavors and adding a welcome zing.
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Mint Tea: A fragrant herbal tea that cleanses the palate and complements the warm spices in the meal, creating a cozy ending to your dining experience.
Enjoy the delightful medley of flavors that these pairings bring, and let your Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls shine at the heart of your table!
Expert Tips for Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
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Rice Rinsing: Rinse the rice well before use to remove excess starch, preventing a gummy texture in your Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls.
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Cabbage Care: Choose large cabbage heads and handle leaves gently to prevent tearing; frozen cabbage leaves should be thawed and drained properly for easy rolling.
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Seasoning Balance: Taste your filling before rolling; adjust spices to your liking, as the flavor can intensify during cooking.
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Roll Technique: Ensure rolls are tightly packed yet not overly stuffed; this helps them maintain shape during simmering while allowing flavors to meld perfectly.
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Slow Cooking Advantage: Consider using a slow cooker for an effortless meal; set it on low for 6-8 hours for tender, flavorful rolls without constant monitoring.
Storage Tips for Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Fridge: Keep leftover Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the rolls before cooking in sauce for up to 3 months. Just thaw them overnight before cooking!
Reheating: To reheat, gently simmer the rolls in a pot with a splash of water or sauce to keep them moist. Cook until heated through for a delightful meal anytime.
Wrapping: If freezing after cooking, wrap the rolls tightly to avoid freezer burn; consider using foil or freezer bags for a sealed barrier.
Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Variations
Feel free to play with the ingredients and make this dish your own, delighting your senses with every bite!
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Vegetarian: Substitute meat with lentils or mushrooms, adding your favorite spices for depth.
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Vegan: Omit meat and dairy completely; use plant-based yogurt or tahini sauce alongside for creaminess.
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Gluten-Free: Swap regular rice with quinoa or a gluten-free grain blend for a safe option. The textures will still satisfy your cravings!
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Seafood Twist: Try shrimp or crab meat instead of beef or lamb; it adds a unique coastal flair to each roll.
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for a heat boost that’ll warm your soul.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or dill into the filling for vibrant flavor notes that brighten each bite.
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Sweet & Savory: Toss in raisins or chopped dried apricots to your filling; they bring a lovely sweetness that contrasts beautifully with tangy sauce.
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Creamy Sauce: Stir in a dollop of cream or Greek yogurt to the tomato sauce just before serving for a richer, velvety finish.
For more delicious inspirations, check out the sweet indulgence of Cinnamon Rolls Homemade or the delightful Churro Stuffed French toast for a treat any time of day!
Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right cabbage for making Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls?
Choose large, fresh cabbage heads, as they will have the biggest leaves, making them easier to wrap. If you can, look for heads with vibrant green color and no dark spots. If using frozen cabbage leaves, ensure they are properly thawed and drained to maintain their texture.
How should I store leftover Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the flavors and keep the rolls moist. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing them—just make sure they’re well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Can I freeze Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls?
Absolutely! You can freeze the rolls before cooking for up to 3 months. To do this, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then proceed with cooking in sauce.
What if my rice is too hard after cooking?
If you find your rice is undercooked or hard, it might be because it wasn’t rinsed properly or the liquid ratio was off. To fix this, add a bit of water or sauce to the pot, cover it, and let it simmer on low heat for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will allow the rice to absorb the liquid and soften.
Are there any dietary considerations for Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls?
Yes, for those with dietary restrictions, you can easily customize the recipe. For gluten-free options, ensure that you use gluten-free rice and check your tomato sauce. If cooking for vegetarians, substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms, keeping the spices to maintain flavor. Always check ingredient labels if you’re dealing with allergies.
What is the best way to reheat thawed Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls?
To safely reheat your rolls, gently simmer them in a pot with a splash of water or sauce. This method keeps them moist and delicious while ensuring they are heated through. Avoid microwaving alone, as this can dry them out. Aim for about 10-15 minutes on low heat, and serve warm!
Delicious Lebanese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls You’ll Love Making
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the cabbage. Blanch the leaves for 2-3 minutes until they become soft and pliable.
- Transfer the blanched leaves into a bowl of ice water to halt cooking and maintain their vibrant color. Once cooled, gently pat them dry.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb or beef with rinsed rice, diced onions, and your favorite Middle Eastern spices. Mix thoroughly to create the filling.
- Lay one softened cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface, place about 2 tablespoons of the filling at the base, fold in the sides, and roll tightly.
- In a deep pot, layer the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down, pour the tomato sauce over the top, and simmer over medium heat for 45-60 minutes.
- Once cooked, let the rolls rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
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