Purple cabbage rolls are a simple and comforting dish made with tender cabbage leaves filled with creamy mashed potatoes and crispy fried bacon. Baked in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil, these rolls make a delicious addition to a main meal or can be served as a satisfying light lunch.
To make purple cabbage rolls, you soften the cabbage leaves in boiling water before filling them with mashed potatoes and fried bacon. The rolls are then transferred to a baking pan and baked until heated through and tender. With their vibrant purple colour and savoury filling, these cabbage rolls are a lovely way to turn a few everyday ingredients into something special.
What are Purple Cabbage Rolls?
Purple cabbage rolls are a variation of traditional cabbage rolls, which are popular in many cuisines and are commonly filled with meat, rice, tomatoes, herbs, and spices. In this recipe, purple cabbage leaves are filled with mashed potatoes and fried bacon for a simple, rustic twist on the classic dish.
The potatoes provide a soft, creamy texture, while the bacon adds a salty, smoky flavor that complements the earthy taste of the cabbage.
Pro Tips
- Boil the leaves for 6–8 minutes so they become flexible enough to roll without tearing.
- When stuffing the cabbage leaves, don’t use too much filling or they will be difficult to roll up and secure.
- Add extra seasoning if desired. Black pepper, garlic, parsley, or dill are all wonderful additions to the potato and bacon filling.
- Don’t skip the olive oil. A light drizzle helps keep the rolls moist while baking and adds a subtle richness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Green Cabbage Instead of Purple Cabbage?
Yes, green cabbage works just as well in this recipe. The flavor will be similar, but the rolls will have a different appearance. Choose large cabbage leaves and boil them until soft enough so they are pliable and easy to roll.
Can I Make Purple Cabbage Rolls Without Bacon?
Absolutely! You can leave out the bacon for a meat-free version or replace it with sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or your favourite plant-based bacon alternative. Just make sure that you thoroughly season the potato mixture with salt as you will be losing the saltiness from the bacon.
Can I Add Cheese to the Potato Filling?
Yes, cheese is a delicious addition. Try mixing grated cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan into the mashed potatoes for extra richness, flavor, and creaminess.
How to Store Purple Cabbage Rolls
Allow leftover cabbage rolls to cool before placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they should keep for up to 3–4 days. Then, reheat them in the oven or microwave until they are thoroughly heated.
Ingredients
How to Make Purple Cabbage Rolls
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the purple cabbage leaves and cook for 6–8 minutes, until softened and flexible. Carefully remove them from the water and allow them to cool slightly.
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the purple cabbage leaves and cook for 6–8 minutes, until softened and flexible. Carefully remove them from the water and allow them to cool slightly.
Place a piece of bacon and a potato in the centre of each cabbage leaf. Fold in the sides and roll the leaf around the filling to create a neat parcel.
Place a piece of bacon and a potato in the centre of each cabbage leaf. Fold in the sides and roll the leaf around the filling to create a neat parcel.
Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a baking pan. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top to help keep them moist as they bake. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the cabbage rolls for 20 minutes, until heated through and tender.
Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a baking pan. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top to help keep them moist as they bake. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the cabbage rolls for 20 minutes, until heated through and tender.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Serve warm and enjoy!
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