Hungarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Töltött Káposzta)

Töltött Káposzta is one of Hungary’s most iconic comfort foods. Tender cabbage leaves are wrapped around a savory filling of seasoned ground pork and rice, then slowly simmered with sauerkraut and paprika until everything becomes rich, tender, and deeply flavorful.

It’s the kind of dish that tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for family gatherings, holidays, and cozy weekend meals.

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls

• 1 large head of green cabbage or fermented cabbage leaves
• 500 g ground pork
• 100 g uncooked white rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sweet Hungarian paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg

For the Pot

• 500–700 g sauerkraut, drained
• 150 g smoked bacon, diced, optional
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons Hungarian paprika
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2–3 bay leaves
• 500–750 ml water or stock

For Serving

• Sour cream
• Fresh parsley, optional
• Extra Hungarian paprika