• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Foxy Folksy logo

  • ALL Recipes
    • COOKING + BAKING TIPS
  • RECIPE by Category
    • By Course/Meal:
      • Appetizers
      • Bread
      • Breakfast Ideas
      • Dessert + Sweets
      • Salad Recipes
      • Soup Recipes
      • Drinks
    • By Main Ingredient:
      • Beef Recipes
      • Chicken + Poultry
      • Pork Recipes
      • Fish + Seafood Recipes
      • Pasta + Noodle Recipes
      • Vegetable Recipes
    • By Cuisine:
      • Asian Dishes
      • Meditteranean/ Mid. Eastern
  • Filipino Dishes
  • ABOUT
    • About the Recipes
    • Contact
menu icon
go to homepage
search icon
Homepage link
  • ALL RECIPES
  • BY COURSE/MEAL:
    • Appetizers
    • Bread
    • Breakfast Ideas
    • Dessert + Sweets
    • Side Dishes
    • Soup Recipes
    • Sandwiches/Light Meals
    • Drinks
    • Sauces and Condiments
  • BY MAIN INGREDIENT:
    • Beef Recipes
    • Chicken + Poultry Recipes
    • Fish + Seafood Recipes
    • Pork Recipes
    • Pasta + Noodle Recipes
    • Rice and Grains Recipes
    • Fruits Recipes
    • Vegetable Recipes
  • BY CUISINE:
    • Asian Dishes
    • Mediterranean/Middle Eastern
    • Italian
  • FILIPINO RECIPES
  • ABOUT
    • About the Recipes
    • Contact
×
Home > Chinese Food Recipes

Stuffed Cabbage

BY :Bebs | Published: 03/23/ 2022 | Updated:03/22/ 2022 | 5 Comments

RECIPE VIDEO PRINT
5 from 6 votes
Share Pin It Email

Mouth-watering Chinese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls bursting with savory oriental flavors packed with ground meat, mushrooms, and carrots drenched with a silky umami sauce. This hearty and healthy dish can be enjoyed as it is or served with rice for a filling lunch or dinner meal.

Asian stuffed cabbage rolls with a silky umami sauce.

If you are craving for steamed dumplings but do not have the wrappers to make them then try making it with cabbage. The meat filling I used in this recipe is almost similar to my Shumai filling, sans the shrimp. But if you are up to it, you can make your own dumpling wrappers too.

  • What are Stuffed Cabbage Rolls?
  • Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Variations
  • Ingredients You'll Need
  • How to make perfect cabbage rolls!
  • Storing and Making-ahead Notes
  • FAQs for Asian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
  • Recipe Video
  • Printable Recipe
  • Stuffed Cabbage Recipe - Chinese Style
  • More Delicious Asian Recipes:

What are Stuffed Cabbage Rolls?

Stuffed cabbage is made by stuffing and rolling varied meat and/or vegetable fillings in cabbage leaves. It can either be steamed, baked, or simmered in a sauce. Stuffed cabbages recipes vary widely by cuisine around the world, it is most common among Asian, African, and European countries

The sauce also differs depending on the country of origin. Since I am making an Asian-inspired version of this dish, I used a mix of soy sauce and oyster sauce with a bit of sesame oil. Other versions use tomato sauce, vinaigrette, yogurt, or even sweet and tart jams.

Asian stuffed cabbage rolls on a serving plate.

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Variations

  • You can make it into an all-in-one dish by adding cooked rice or grains to the filling. Use bigger leaves to accommodate this bulkier version.
  • If you like your rolls to have a bit of a kick, add some Sriracha to the sauce.
  • To make a vegan version of this dish, omit the meat and use more mushrooms instead. You can also use mock meat, tofu, or add more plant proteins like lentils. You also need to skip the oyster sauce and use soy sauce mixed with maple syrup or agave nectar.
  • If you like a low-carb option, use ground chicken or turkey meat. Take note that these require less steaming time.

Ingredients You'll Need

Ingredients in making cabbage rolls.

For the Cabbage Rolls

  • Cabbage - I used a medium-large round cabbage head for this recipe. They are easier to manage because of their wide, soft leaves but you can also use Napa cabbage (Chinese cabbage) which is also .
  • Ground meat - I used pork in this recipe. However, feel free to also use beef or other types of ground meat that you like.
  • Shiitake mushroom - bulks up the filling with its flavorful, meaty mince.
  • Vegetables- carrots and spring onions for more texture and flavor. You can add and use other veggies like celery, potatoes, or water chestnuts.
  • Light soy sauce- if you cannot find one, you can use regular soy sauce instead.
  • Oyster sauce - adds an earthy, slightly sweet and salty flavor to the dish. This condiment is widely used in a lot of Asian cuisines.
  • Salt and pepper- to taste.

For the Sauce

  • Oyster sauce
  • Liquid from steamed cabbage and mushroom soak- do not let these liquids go to waste! They add a nice depth of flavor to the sauce.
  • Sesame oil - this will give the sauce a toasted and nutty flavor.
  • Cornstarch - used to thicken the sauce

How to make perfect cabbage rolls!

Steps on how to make stuffed cabbage rolls.
  • When using Napa cabbage, you have to cut off the thick, crunchy base for easier rolling. But do not let those go to waste! You can chop them into smaller pieces and add them to the stuffing.
  • When using round cabbage, cut out the core of the cabbage by inserting a knife around it so it will be easy to separate them later. Blanch it whole until the leave become limp and soft. If there is still a hard thick rib on the leaf, carve it out with a knife by laying it flat and then slicing out the protruding rib part.
  • When rolling the stuffing, start from the stem end and tightly roll the cabbage. This way, the stuffing is much more secure and the cabbage will less likely to uncurl as they steam.
  • Blanch a bunch of green onion leaves and use them to tie the stuffed rolls securely! Aside from having perfectly compact steamed rolls, they also infuse a mild flavor and aroma. Plus, they make the rolls look more appetizing.
  • Once you are down to the smaller inner leaves, simply place two leaves side by side, overlapping to create one larger leaf.

Storing and Making-ahead Notes

You can make these Cabbage Rolls ahead of time. Prepare the stuffed cabbage rolls, cover them, and store them in the fridge or chiller for 6 to 8 hours before steaming.

Leftovers should be placed in a container with a tight-fitted lid or covered in cling film
before placing them on the fridge. Make sure to consume within them within 3-4 days. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave until heated through.

For longer storage, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and freeze them for up to three months.

Steamed stuffed cabbage rolls.

FAQs for Asian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Why are my cabbage rolls tough?

Tough cabbage rolls mean you might have not cooked them long enough. But don't fret because you can always return them to the steamer and cook them longer.

I don't want to par-boil the cabbage, what can I do instead?

The night before you are planning to cook this recipe, prepare the cabbage by cutting out the core and then freeze it overnight. Remove it from the freezer and thaw it for about 30mins-1 hour before stuffing it with the filling. Freezing helps break down the structure of the leaves making them more pliable.

Can I bake the Cabbage rolls?  

Asian cabbage rolls are often steamed, not baked. However, I have seen other recipes where they are baked so yes, it is possible. You may bake them at 170C/350F for about 30 minutes.

Asian stuffed cabbage rolls on a serving plate.

Recipe Video

Printable Recipe

Asian stuffed cabbage rolls on a serving plate.
Print Review

Stuffed Cabbage Recipe - Chinese Style

5 from 6 votes
Mouth-watering Stuffed Cabbage Rolls bursting with savory oriental flavors drenched with a silky umami sauce and packed with delectable ground meat, mushrooms, and carrots. This hearty and flavorful Asian dish can be enjoyed as it is or served with rice for a filling lunch or dinner meal.
Prep Time: 10 minutes mins
Cook Time: 30 minutes mins
Total Time: 40 minutes mins
Course :Appetizer, Main Course
Servings =12 pieces
Print Recipe Rate this Recipe

Ingredients
 

For the Stuffed Cabbage Rolls:

  • 1 head round cabbage or napa cabbage
  • 500 grams ground meat beef or pork
  • 4 pcs dried shiitake mushrooms
  • 1 small carrot chopped
  • 3 stalks spring onion white parts chopped, leaves separated
  • 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground pepper

For the Sauce:

  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • liquid from mushroom soak
  • liquid from steamed cabbage
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Instructions
 

  • 4 pcs dried shiitake mushrooms
    Place shiitake mushroom in a bowl and pour (1 cup) hot water to cover to reconstitute it. Once hydrated and cold enough to handle, squeeze out the liquid and reserve the liquid and chop into small pieces.
  • 3 stalks spring onion
    In a pot with boiling water, blanch the spring onion leaves until softened (to be used as tie).
  • 1 head round cabbage or napa cabbage
    Remove the core of the cabbage. Blanch cabbage leaves in boiling water until they begin to wilt (it should take no more than 20 seconds). Separate the leaves. Drain and allow to cool to touch.
  • Trim the rib (thick white part) of the leaves to become more pliable. Reserve the trimmings and chop them finely.
  • 500 grams ground meat, 4 pcs dried shiitake mushrooms, 1 small carrot, 1 tablespoon light soy sauce, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, ½ teaspoon salt, ⅛ teaspoon ground pepper
    In a bowl, combine ground pork, mushroom, carrots, green onion, chopped cabbage trimmings, soy sauce, oyster sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  • Place a cabbage leaf flat on a plate, scoop about 2 spoonful of the filling and place it on top of one end of the cabbage leaf then wrap the sides over it and roll. Tie the roll with a green onion leaf if needed.
  • Place the rolls on a plate, seam side down. Place the plate on a steamer and steam for 12-15 minutes. Remove the plate from the steamer and transfer the rolls into a serving plate. Do not throw the liquids from the cabbage on the plate.
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch, liquid from mushroom soak, liquid from steamed cabbage, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon sesame oil
    For the sauce, combine the water from soaking the mushroom and cornstarch to make a slurry. Collect the liquids from the steamed cabbage in a saucepan and season with oyster sauce and sesame oil. Bring to a gentle simmer over low heat and once simmering add the slurry and cook until it the sauce thickens.
  • Pour the sauce over the cabbage rolls and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 162kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 10gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 36mgSodium: 374mgPotassium: 328mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 960IUVitamin C: 34mgCalcium: 51mgIron: 2mg
Have you tried this recipe?Mention @foxyfolksy or tag #FoxyFolksyRecipes!

More Delicious Asian Recipes:

  • You just have to try this super easy Gyoza recipe that includes a simple but flavorful dipping sauce. You will definitely love it! www.foxyfolksy.com
    Gyoza Recipe with dipping sauce
  • Authentic Korean Kimchi
    Kimchi
  • Siomai or shumai - Chinese steamed dumplings
    Shumai/Siomai Recipe
  • You've got to try this aromatic and savory Thai pandan chicken recipe! Gai haw bai toey is a Thai dish of fried chicken wrapped in pandan leaves. | www.foxyfolksy.com
    Thai Pandan Chicken
  • Lumpiang Shanghai
    Lumpiang Shanghai
  • Try these Japanese Siomai now! Sushi and dumplings combined in one! | www.foxyfolksy.com
    Japanese Siomai Recipe

More Chinese Food Recipes

  • Yang Chow fried rice in a serving platter loaded with shrimp, sausages, eggs, carrots, and green peas.
    Yang Chow Fried Rice
  • Steamed pompano fish Chinese- style in a serving platter with sliced ginger, green onions, and cilantro on top.
    Steamed Fish-Chinese Style
  • Sweet and Sour Pork on a serving platter.
    Sweet and Sour Pork
  • Sweet and Sour Fish with colorful bell pepper strips and pineapple chunks on a serving platter.
    Sweet and Sour Fish Fillet

Latest Recipes

Fresh calamansi juice being poured in a glass with ice, calamondin slices, and mint leaves.

Calamansi Juice

Yang Chow fried rice in a serving platter loaded with shrimp, sausages, eggs, carrots, and green peas.

Yang Chow Fried Rice

Sizzling sisig in a cast iron pan.

Authentic Sisig

Crispy beer battered fish served with fries and lemon wedges.

Crispy Beer-Battered Fish

Binatog in a bowl topped with grated mature coconut and brown sugar.

Binatog

Tender beef slices and ampalaya stir-fried in a delicious brown sauce.

Ampalaya Con Carne

Sinantolan made with minced cotton fruit flesh (santol) with coconut cream, shrimp paste, and chili.

Sinantolan (Ginataang Santol)

A slice of avocado float topped with slices of avocado and crushed graham crackers.

Avocado Float

Reader Interactions

Comments

    5 from 6 votes (4 ratings without comment)

    What do you think? Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Rate this Recipe




  1. Lynn says

    February 16, 2024 at 11:14 am

    5 stars
    I made this tonight with ground turkey and it was fantastic! Thank you!

    Reply
    • Bebs says

      March 06, 2024 at 2:00 pm

      Ooohhh...ground turkey sounds lovely, Lynn!

      Reply
  2. Yvette Piche says

    February 02, 2023 at 5:23 am

    5 stars
    This was so fun to make! I took some liberties with a few ingredients but this recipe was so helpful and delicious!

    Reply
  3. Pauline says

    July 04, 2022 at 7:36 am

    Going to try this cabbage rolls; found one on Pinterest but it looked way spicy for me. This looks a lot more adaptable and kinder to my old palate 🙂

    Reply
    • Bebs says

      July 12, 2022 at 11:42 am

      How did it go, Pauline? Hope you like it.

      Reply

Primary Sidebar

Author photo

Good food does not have to be expensive or difficult to make. With our recipes, you can make budget-friendly and restaurant-worthy dishes in no time!

Learn more→

  • Fresh calamansi juice being poured in a glass with ice, calamondin slices, and mint leaves.
    Calamansi Juice
  • Sinigang na bangus in a serving bowl.
    Sinigang na Bangus
  • Sizzling sisig in a cast iron pan.
    Authentic Sisig
  • Crispy beer battered fish served with fries and lemon wedges.
    Crispy Beer-Battered Fish

Subscribe

Ebook
Receive new posts directly delivered to your inbox As a bonus, a FREE eCookbook and printable Recipe Cards upon subscription
  • Easy Garlic Mushroom and Baby Potatoes by Foxy Folky
    Pan Roasted Garlic Mushroom and Baby Potatoes

  • Hamondo Recipe
    Easy Pork Hamonado Recipe using Pork Belly

  • Phalaenopsis Orchid Care
    How to take care of orchids?

  • Chop Suey served in a plate.
    Easy Chop Suey Recipe

  • How to make Tapioca Pearls by Foxy Folksy
    How to make Black Tapioca Pearls for Bubble Tea (Milk Tea)

  • Baby Back Ribs in Oven | Foxy Folksy
    Fall-off-the-bone Baby Back Ribs in Oven

Footer

  • Spanish Bread showing the buttery sugar filling.
    Filipino Spanish Bread Recipe
  • Try this Chicken Sotanghon Soup. A tasty and immune-boosting Filipino chicken soup with slippy cellophane noodles. | www.foxyfolksy.com
    Chicken Sotanghon Soup
  • Yummy Coffee Jelly
    Coffee Jelly
  • Pichi Pichi Recipe
  • Homemade Japanese Cheesecake | Foxy Folksy
    Japanese Cheesecake
  • Cheesy Cauliflower
    Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Footer

↑ back to top

FEATURE ICONS

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Copyright © 2014 - 2021 Foxy Folksy All Rights Reserved

HOME | ABOUT | CONTACT | RECIPE INDEX

PRIVACY POLICY| DISCLOSURE|COPYRIGHT POLICY

Rate This Recipe

Your vote:




A rating is required
A name is required
An email is required

Recipe Ratings without Comment

Something went wrong. Please try again.