Get ready to transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched shores of Greece with a mouthwatering dish that combines the rich, succulent flavors of lamb with the tender embrace of cabbage leaves. These Greek Lamb Cabbage Bowls are not just a meal – they're a culinary adventure that promises to tantalize your senses and impress even the most discerning food lovers. Imagine perfectly seasoned ground lamb, wrapped in delicate cabbage leaves and crowned with a cool, creamy tzatziki sauce that will make your dinner guests beg for the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 head of cabbage, leaves separated
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the cabbage by carefully separating the leaves, ensuring they remain intact. Rinse the leaves and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Introduce ground lamb to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, approximately 6-7 minutes.
- Season the lamb mixture with oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly throughout the meat.
- Blanch the cabbage leaves in boiling water for 1-2 minutes to soften them, then immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
- Drain the cabbage leaves and pat them dry. Lay each leaf flat and add a generous spoonful of the lamb mixture to the center.
- Carefully roll the cabbage leaves, folding in the sides to create neat parcels that enclose the lamb filling.
- Optional: If desired, you can lightly brown the rolled cabbage parcels in a skillet for additional flavor and texture.
- Plate the cabbage rolls and generously top with tzatziki sauce.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and fresh flavor.
- Serve hot and enjoy your Greek Lamb Cabbage Bowls immediately.
Tips
- Cabbage Leaf Preparation: When separating cabbage leaves, work slowly and carefully to keep them whole. If a leaf tears, you can always patch it with another piece.
- Meat Seasoning Secret: For an extra flavor boost, let the seasoned lamb mixture sit for 10-15 minutes before cooking to allow the spices to fully integrate.
- Blanching Technique: Don't overcook the cabbage leaves when blanching. They should be pliable but not mushy – 1-2 minutes is typically perfect.
- Tzatziki Tip: For the freshest taste, try making your own tzatziki sauce with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and fresh dill.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These cabbage rolls can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, making them perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
- Serving Suggestion: For a complete Mediterranean meal, serve with a side of Greek salad or warm pita bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 95mg
