When it comes to hearty and satisfying meals, few dishes can rival the comfort and flavor of beef cabbage rolls. This beloved recipe takes tender beef, combines it with a medley of vegetables and spices, wraps it in cabbage leaves, and bakes it to perfection. But why stick to tradition when you can elevate it with a unique twist? In this recipe, the beef is rubbed with whole grain mustard and soy sauce, seasoned with a blend of spices, stuffed with a savory vegetable mixture, and finished with a sprinkle of Everything Bagel seasoning for an extra burst of flavor. Smoked to perfection, these beef cabbage rolls are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Let’s dive in and discover how to make this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Curry powder, to taste
- 1 small cabbage, leaves separated
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped
- Everything Bagel seasoning, for sprinkling
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, whole grain mustard, soy sauce, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and curry powder. Mix until well combined.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and jalapeño until softened and fragrant.
- Stuff Cabbage Leaves: Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Spoon some of the beef mixture onto the center of the leaf, then top with a spoonful of the sautéed vegetables. Roll the cabbage leaf around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
- Sprinkle with Seasoning: Once all the cabbage rolls are assembled, sprinkle them generously with Everything Bagel seasoning.
- Smoke the Cabbage Rolls: Preheat your smoker to 300-350°F (150-175°C) using charcoal and Mesquite wood for smoke flavor. Place the cabbage rolls directly on the smoker grate and smoke for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C).
- Serve: Once smoked to perfection, remove the cabbage rolls from the smoker and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetable Variation: Feel free to customize the vegetable filling based on your preferences. You can add mushrooms, carrots, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño and curry powder to suit your taste preferences. For a milder version, remove the seeds from the jalapeño or omit it altogether.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure that the soy sauce used is gluten-free if you’re following a gluten-free diet.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Substitute the soy sauce with coconut aminos or tamari sauce to reduce the carb content.
- Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs in the beef mixture to keep it keto-friendly.
- Serve the smoked beef cabbage rolls with a side of cauliflower mash or sautéed greens for a low-carb, keto-friendly meal.
Low-Carb Version:
- Reduce the amount of onion and bell pepper in the filling to lower the carb content.
- Replace the Everything Bagel seasoning with a homemade blend of herbs and spices to avoid added carbs.
- Serve the smoked beef cabbage rolls with a side salad or grilled vegetables for a lighter option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use a different type of meat for the filling? Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of beef for the filling. Just adjust the seasonings accordingly to complement the chosen meat.
2. Can I bake the cabbage rolls in the oven instead of smoking them? Yes, if you don’t have a smoker, you can bake the cabbage rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until cooked through and the cabbage is tender.
3. Can I make the cabbage rolls ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the cabbage rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to smoke or bake. Just be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before cooking.
4. What can I serve with smoked beef cabbage rolls? These cabbage rolls pair well with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread. For a low-carb option, consider serving them with cauliflower rice or a side salad.
Beef cabbage rolls are a classic comfort food that’s been given a flavorful twist in this recipe. With a savory beef filling, a hint of smokiness from the smoker, and a burst of flavor from the Everything Bagel seasoning, these cabbage rolls are sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a satisfying meal, these smoked beef cabbage rolls are a delicious option that’s sure to please. So fire up the smoker, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering meal that’s both comforting and flavorful!
