Tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling of seasoned beef and rice, braised in tomato sauce until meltingly soft.
Nutrition & Info
Allergen Warnings
Equipment Needed
Presentation Guide
Vessel: deep oval platter
Garnishes: sour cream, fresh dill
Accompaniments: mashed potatoes
Instructions
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1
Core the cabbage and blanch in boiling salted water for 5 minutes. Peel off softened leaves and trim thick ribs.
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2
Mix ground beef, cooked rice, grated onion, half the grated carrot, salt, and pepper.
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3
Place 2-3 tablespoons of filling on each cabbage leaf, tuck sides in, and roll tightly.
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4
Sauté remaining carrot in oil, add tomato passata and bay leaf, simmer 5 minutes.
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5
Arrange rolls seam-down in a deep pot, pour sauce over, cover, and braise on low heat for 60 minutes.
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6
Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream.
Did You Know?
Holubtsi means 'little pigeons' in Ukrainian, referring to the rolled shape of the cabbage parcels.
Chef's Notes
Equipment Tips
- large pot
- skillet
- sharp knife
Garnishing
sour cream, fresh dill
Accompaniments
mashed potatoes
The Story Behind Голубці
Holubtsi have been a cornerstone of Ukrainian home cooking for centuries, with roots in Ottoman-influenced stuffed vegetable traditions that spread through Eastern Europe. Each family guards its own recipe, varying the grain and sauce proportions.
Traditionally served at Christmas Eve supper, weddings, and Sunday family dinners, holubtsi embody the Ukrainian philosophy of transforming humble pantry staples into celebratory fare.
Today holubtsi remain one of Ukraine's most beloved comfort foods, found in every home kitchen and restaurant across the country.
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