Go Back Email Link
Print Recipe

Bavarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)

Traditional Bavarian stuffed cabbage rolls made with Savoy cabbage, ground meat, and a rich homemade gravy. Classic German comfort food that reheats beautifully.
Prep Time45 minutes
Cook Time1 hour
Total Time1 hour 45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: German
Keyword: Kohlrouladen, Bavarian stuffed cabbage, German comfort food, cabbage rolls
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 large Savoy cabbage
  • 2 carrots
  • 2 slices celery root or stalk celery
  • 1 parsley root or parsnip
  • 1 leek
  • 1 onion
  • 3 tbsp breadcrumbs or 1 soaked bread roll
  • 2 eggs
  • 300 g ground beef or beef and pork mix
  • 500 ml dry white wine
  • 120 g diced bacon
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 liter broth or water
  • Salt and pepper
  • Cooking oil
  • Optional: uncooked rice

Instructions

  • Remove the cabbage core and blanch the cabbage in boiling water until leaves loosen. Remove leaves and let cool.
  • Sauté chopped onion with oil and salt until translucent. Let cool.
  • Sauté bacon and vegetables, add tomato paste, deglaze with white wine, and simmer 15–20 minutes.
  • Mix ground meat, onions, breadcrumbs or soaked bread, eggs, and optional rice.
  • Fill cabbage leaves, roll tightly, and secure.
  • Brown rolls in a hot pot, then add braising liquid and bake covered at 180°C / 350°F for 30–45 minutes.
  • Remove rolls, strain and thicken sauce, season to taste, and serve.