Make these lighter cabbage dumplings using tender cabbage leaves instead of dough. This recipe offers a satisfying, low-carb appetizer that delivers the crunch you crave.
Author:cookingbyjade
Prep Time:25 min
Cook Time:40 min
Total Time:65 min
Yield:12 servings 1x
Category:Appetizer
Method:Steaming
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
1 medium head green cabbage
1 pound ground pork or turkey
1/2 cup cooked white rice
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
2 cups beef or vegetable broth (for steaming)
Instructions
Prepare the cabbage: Carefully remove the outer leaves from the cabbage head. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Submerge the cabbage head in boiling water for 3 to 5 minutes until the leaves are pliable. Remove and let cool slightly. Trim the thick central vein from each leaf so it can roll easily.
Make the filling: In a bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, egg, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix gently until just combined; do not overmix.
Assemble the dumplings: Place about 2 tablespoons of filling near the base of a cabbage leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf inward over the filling, then roll the leaf tightly from the base to the tip, creating a compact roll. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
Steam the dumplings: Pour the broth into a large pot or steamer basket. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the steamer basket above the broth. Cover the pot tightly.
Cook the dumplings: Steam over medium heat for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the meat filling is cooked through.
Serve: Remove the steamed cabbage rolls and serve immediately with your preferred dipping sauce.
Notes
For a low-carb appetizer, skip the rice in the filling and add 1/4 cup finely shredded carrot for texture.
You can use this method to make steamed cabbage rolls for a healthy dumpling experience.
If you prefer a richer flavor, simmer the dumplings directly in a tomato-based sauce instead of steaming them in broth.