Hungarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Töltött Káposzta)

Hungarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, known as Töltött Káposzta, are one of the most beloved dishes in traditional Hungarian cuisine. Tender cabbage leaves are wrapped around a savory filling of seasoned ground meat and rice, then slowly simmered until everything becomes wonderfully tender and flavorful.

Rich, comforting, and deeply satisfying, this classic dish is often associated with family gatherings, holidays, and generous Hungarian home cooking.

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls

• 1 large head of fermented or sour cabbage, or 1 large fresh cabbage
• 1½ lb (700 g) ground pork
• ½ cup (100 g) uncooked white rice
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sweet Hungarian paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or lard

For the Pot

• 500–700 g sauerkraut, drained
• 150–200 g smoked sausage, sliced, optional
• 150 g smoked bacon, optional
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2–3 cups water or broth
• 1–2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon sweet Hungarian paprika
• Salt and pepper, as needed

To Serve

• Sour cream
• Fresh bread
• Chopped parsley or paprika, optional