Low Carb Cabbage Roll Recipe Without Rice

Low Carb Cabbage Roll Recipe Without Rice

Mar 19, 2024

Low Carb Cabbage Roll Recipe Without Rice

Looking to cut back on carbs but still craving comfort food? Did you know that a single cup of cooked rice contains about 45 grams of carbohydrates?
Imagine enjoying a delicious and satisfying cabbage roll without the rice, yet still packed with all the flavors you love. With this low-carb cabbage roll recipe, you can savor the hearty goodness without the guilt. And the best part? It's easier than you think.
Stay tuned to discover how to make this mouthwatering dish that's perfect for anyone looking to lighten up their meals without sacrificing taste.

Low-Carb and Rice-Free Option

You can easily make this cabbage roll recipe low-carb and rice-free by substituting cauliflower rice for traditional rice. Cauliflower rice is a great alternative that reduces the carb content while still providing a delicious and satisfying texture.
Here's how to make the low-carb and rice-free version of this recipe:

  • Start by preparing the cauliflower rice by pulsing cauliflower florets in a food processor until they resemble the texture of rice.
  • Sauté the cauliflower rice in a pan with a bit of olive oil and your favorite seasonings until it's tender but not mushy.

Once the cauliflower rice is ready, use it as a replacement for the traditional rice in the cabbage roll filling.
Follow the rest of the recipe as usual, rolling the cabbage leaves around the cauliflower rice filling and cooking them in the flavorful tomato sauce.

Recipe

Let's talk about the key points of this delicious low carb cabbage roll recipe.
First, we'll cover the ingredients you'll need to make these flavorful rolls.
Then, we'll walk you through the simple directions to create a satisfying meal that's perfect for your low-carb lifestyle.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for this low carb cabbage roll recipe. Here's what you'll need:

Ingredients Amount
Ground beef 1 pound
Cabbage 1 head
Cauliflower rice 1 cup
Tomato sauce 1 ½ cups

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it's time to get started on making these delicious low carb cabbage rolls. The simplicity of these ingredients makes it easy to enjoy a flavorful meal without the guilt of extra carbs. Plus, the cauliflower rice adds a wonderful texture and taste that fits perfectly with the savory ground beef and cabbage. Get excited to create a dish that's both satisfying and healthy!

Cabbage Roll Cooking Method

Ready to start cooking up some delicious low carb cabbage rolls? Let's talk about the key points you'll need to know:

  • the ingredients you'll need
  • the cooking time required
  • and the step-by-step instructions to create these tasty rolls.

It's all about making the process easy and enjoyable, so you can savor the end result without any stress.
Let's get started!

Cabbage Roll Ingredients

You can prepare the cabbage roll ingredients by gathering ground meat, rice, onions, and spices, and then mixing them together before rolling them in cabbage leaves.
For a low-carb version, you can substitute the rice with cauliflower rice or simply omit it altogether.
When choosing ground meat, lean turkey or beef are popular choices, but feel free to use whatever type you prefer. Onions and garlic add a flavorful punch, while spices like paprika, oregano, and thyme can elevate the taste.
Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures that each bite is bursting with savory goodness.
Once the filling is ready, carefully roll it into cabbage leaves, securing them with toothpicks or arranging them seam side down in a baking dish.
These simple yet delicious ingredients will form the heart of your cabbage roll dish.

Cooking Time

When preparing cabbage rolls, the cooking time can vary depending on whether you opt to bake, simmer, or use a slow cooker.
If you choose to bake the cabbage rolls in the oven, it usually takes around 45-60 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
For simmering on the stovetop, you'll need to cook them for approximately 40-50 minutes over low to medium heat.
Using a slow cooker can be the most time-saving method, requiring about 4-6 hours on low heat or 2-3 hours on high.
Keep in mind that the cooking time may also depend on the size of the cabbage rolls and the specific recipe.
Whichever method you choose, make sure the cabbage rolls reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure they're thoroughly cooked.

Step-By-Step Instructions

To prepare the cabbage rolls, begin by carefully removing the core from the head of cabbage and carefully separating the leaves.
Next, blanch the cabbage leaves in a pot of boiling water for a few minutes until they're pliable.
While the leaves are blanching, mix together the low-carb filling of your choice, such as ground meat, cauliflower rice, onions, and spices.
Once the leaves are pliable, spoon a portion of the filling onto each leaf and roll them up, tucking in the sides as you go.
Place the cabbage rolls in a baking dish, seam side down.
Pour a low-carb tomato sauce or broth over the rolls, cover the dish with foil, and bake in the oven until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
Enjoy your delicious low-carb cabbage rolls without rice!

Description

This low carb cabbage roll recipe combines tender cabbage leaves with a flavorful filling, creating a satisfying and nutritious meal option. The cabbage leaves are blanched until they're pliable, then filled with a mixture of ground meat, onions, garlic, and a savory blend of spices. The rolls are nestled in a rich tomato sauce and baked until the flavors meld together, resulting in a comforting dish that's perfect for any occasion.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can customize the filling to suit your taste preferences, whether you prefer a classic beef and pork combination or a lighter option with ground turkey or chicken. The cabbage rolls can be served as a standalone entree, or paired with a side salad for a complete and balanced meal.
These low carb cabbage rolls offer a delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food while staying true to your low-carb lifestyle. With each bite, you'll savor the tender cabbage enveloping the savory filling, making it a wholesome and satisfying option that's sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Nutritional Breakdown per Serving

With each serving of these low carb cabbage rolls, you can enjoy a balanced and nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor. Here's a breakdown of the nutritional value per serving:

  • Calories: 280
  • Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

These cabbage rolls aren't only low in carbs but also pack a punch of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. The combination of ground turkey, cabbage, and a flavorful tomato sauce provides a satisfying and wholesome meal that won't leave you feeling deprived.
Whether you're looking to manage your carb intake, following a keto diet, or simply want a lighter alternative to traditional cabbage rolls, this recipe offers a delicious solution without compromising on taste or nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute the Ground Beef With Another Type of Protein, Like Turkey or Chicken?

Yes, you can definitely substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken in the recipe. Both options are great alternatives and can be equally delicious. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as turkey and chicken may cook faster than ground beef.
Experiment with different flavors and spices to find the perfect match for your taste buds. Enjoy the flexibility and have fun creating your own twist on this low carb cabbage roll recipe!

How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan-Friendly?

To make the recipe vegetarian or vegan-friendly, substitute the ground beef with plant-based protein like lentils, quinoa, or crumbled tofu.
You can also add a variety of veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, and carrots for extra flavor and texture.
Swap out any dairy-based ingredients for non-dairy alternatives.
Experiment with different seasonings to enhance the taste.
Enjoy customizing the recipe to suit your dietary preferences!

Are There Any Alternative Cooking Methods for the Cabbage Rolls, Such as Baking or Using a Slow Cooker?

You can definitely switch up the cooking method for your cabbage rolls. Baking is a great alternative to boiling, and it can give your rolls a nice crispness.
You can also use a slow cooker for a hands-off approach. Just layer the rolls in the slow cooker, add your sauce, then cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Both methods are easy and can add some delicious variety to your low carb cabbage roll recipe.

Can I Make a Large Batch of Cabbage Rolls and Freeze Them for Later Use?

Yes, you can definitely make a large batch of cabbage rolls and freeze them for later use.
It's a great way to have a convenient, healthy meal ready to go whenever you need it.
Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw and reheat.
This way, you can have delicious cabbage rolls on hand without the hassle of making them from scratch every time.

What Are Some Creative Serving Suggestions for the Low-Carb Cabbage Rolls?

Get creative with your low-carb cabbage rolls! Try serving them with a side of zucchini noodles for a veggie-packed meal.
You could also pair them with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying dish.
Want a cozy option? Serve the cabbage rolls with a warm cauliflower mash.
And don't forget to top them off with a dollop of creamy avocado or yogurt for extra flavor!