Hungarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Töltött Káposzta)

Hungarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, known as Töltött Káposzta, are one of the most cherished dishes in Hungarian cuisine. Tender cabbage leaves are wrapped around a savory filling of ground pork and rice, then slowly simmered with sauerkraut, paprika, and smoky pork for a deeply comforting meal.

This hearty dish is especially popular during Christmas, Easter, family celebrations, and winter gatherings. Like many traditional Hungarian recipes, the exact preparation varies from family to family, with each cook adding their own touch.

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls

• 1 large head of green cabbage
• 1½ lb ground pork
• ½ cup uncooked white rice
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
• 1 egg, optional

For the Pot

• 2–3 cups sauerkraut
• ½ lb smoked pork or smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lard or vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon Hungarian paprika
• 2 cups water or pork broth
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, as needed

To Serve

• Sour cream
• Fresh crusty bread
• Extra Hungarian paprika, optional