Hungarian cuisine is known for its rich, comforting dishes, and today’s lunch is no exception. For Day 4 of my weeklong culinary journey, I’m preparing a classic: Hungarian Stuffed Cabbage, or Töltött Káposzta. This dish is hearty, flavourful, and deeply rooted in tradition, making it a perfect midday meal to show my love.

What is Töltött Káposzta?

Töltött Káposzta is a traditional Hungarian dish made with cabbage leaves stuffed with a savoury mixture of meat, rice, and spices, all simmered in a tangy tomato sauce. It’s often enjoyed during festive gatherings but is just as wonderful as a comforting meal at home. For this version, I’ve adapted the recipe to suit my wife’s preferences by using ground chicken or turkey instead of the more traditional pork or beef.

Ingredients (Serves 1-2)

For the Stuffed Cabbage:

• 4 large cabbage leaves
• 200g ground chicken or turkey
• 50g cooked rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

• 250 ml tomato passata or crushed tomatoes
• 100 ml chicken stock
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp sweet paprika
• 1/2 tbsp olive oil

For Garnish:

• 1 tbsp sour cream
• Fresh dill or parsley (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage:

Start by blanching 4 large cabbage leaves in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, until softened. This makes them pliable for rolling. Set them aside to cool.

2. Make the Filling:

In a bowl, combine:

• 200g ground chicken or turkey
• 50g cooked rice
• 1 small finely chopped onion
• 1 minced garlic clove
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• A pinch of salt and pepper
  Mix well to create the stuffing mixture.

3. Stuff the Cabbage:

Lay each cabbage leaf flat and place about 1-2 tablespoons of the filling in the centre. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll tightly, tucking in the edges to secure the roll.

4. Cook the Stuffed Cabbage:

In a large saucepan, prepare the sauce by heating:

• 1/2 tbsp olive oil
• Add 250 ml tomato passata, 100 ml chicken stock, 1/2 tsp sugar, and 1/2 tsp sweet paprika.
  Bring the sauce to a simmer.

Carefully place the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down into the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes, occasionally basting the rolls with the sauce to keep them moist.

5. Serve:

Plate the stuffed cabbage rolls and spoon the rich tomato sauce over the top. Add a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with fresh dill or parsley for a touch of colour and freshness.

Why This Dish is Special

• Rooted in Tradition: Töltött Káposzta is a dish steeped in Hungarian history and culture.
• Tailored with Love: By adapting the recipe to suit her tastes, this meal becomes uniquely personal.
• Hearty and Comforting: The tender cabbage, savoury filling, and tangy tomato sauce create a perfect balance of textures and flavours.