Deliciously Tender Stuffed Cabbage (Holishkes) in Sweet Tomato Sauce

Stuffed Cabbage, or Holishkes, is a cherished dish with roots in Eastern European Jewish cuisine. Traditionally served on Sukkot to symbolize abundance, these tender cabbage leaves are filled with a savory meat and rice mixture, then simmered in a sweet tomato sauce that perfectly complements the savory filling. The harmonious blend of flavors and textures makes it a comforting choice for family gatherings. Like other classic Jewish dishes such as Challah and Matzo Ball Soup, Holishkes bring a sense of nostalgia and warmth to the dining table.

Deliciously Tender Stuffed Cabbage (Holishkes) in Sweet Tomato Sauce - Jewish recipe
Stuffed Cabbage, or Holishkes, is a cherished dish with roots in Eastern European Jewish cuisine. Traditionally served on Sukkot to symbolize abundance, these tender cabbage leaves are filled with a savory meat and rice mixture, then simmered in a sweet tomato sauce that perfectly complements the savory filling. The harmonious blend of flavors and textures makes it a comforting choice for family gatherings. Like other classic Jewish dishes such as Challah and Matzo Ball Soup, Holishkes bring a sense of nostalgia and warmth to the dining table.
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Jewish
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Cabbage and Filling
  • 1 large green cabbage cored
  • 1 pound ground beef kosher
  • 1 cup cooked white rice
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large egg beaten
Sweet Tomato Sauce
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar packed
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cabbage and cook for about 5 minutes, until leaves are pliable. Drain and cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, rice, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and egg. Mix until well combined.
  3. Separate cabbage leaves and trim thick veins. Place 3 tablespoons of filling on each leaf, roll tightly, and tuck in sides.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, brown sugar, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and salt.
  5. Place a layer of cabbage leaves on the bottom of a large pot. Arrange stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down on top.
  6. Pour the sweet tomato sauce over the cabbage rolls. Cover and simmer on low heat for 90 minutes, until cabbage is tender.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, substitute beef with cooked lentils or mushrooms. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Facts
6 servings per recipe
Serving size 1 serving
Calories 350
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 18g 23%
Saturated Fat 6g 30%
Trans Fat 0g
Cholesterol 55mg 18%
Sodium 750mg 33%
Dietary Fiber 6g 21%
Total Sugars 10g
Protein 20g 40%
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