Töltött Káposzta 🇭🇺

One of the most beloved comfort foods in Hungary — tender cabbage leaves stuffed with seasoned meat and rice, slowly simmered with sauerkraut and paprika.

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Ingredients

For the Rolls

• 1 large cabbage
• 500 g ground pork
• 150 g ground beef
• 1/2 cup uncooked rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Pot

• 400 g sauerkraut
• 2 tbsp oil or lard
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 3 cups broth or water
• 2 bay leaves
• Smoked sausage pieces (optional)

For Serving

• Sour cream
• Fresh bread

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Carefully soften cabbage leaves in hot water for 2–3 minutes.
3. Remove thick stems if needed.

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2. Make the Filling

1. Mix pork, beef, rice, onion, garlic, egg, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Place filling onto each cabbage leaf.
3. Roll tightly while folding in the sides.

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3. Assemble the Pot

1. Heat oil in a large pot and sauté chopped onion until soft.
2. Stir in paprika.
3. Spread half the sauerkraut on the bottom.
4. Arrange cabbage rolls on top.
5. Add sausage pieces if using.
6. Cover with remaining sauerkraut.

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4. Simmer

1. Pour tomato sauce and broth over everything.
2. Add bay leaves.
3. Cover and simmer gently for 1½–2 hours until tender and flavorful.