Oriental Cabbage Rolls

Name: Oriental Cabbage Rolls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 10
Ingredients: Verza (savoy cabbage) 10 leaves; Ground pork 0.9 lb; Sausage 7.1 oz; Extra virgin olive oil to taste; Soy sauce 2 tbsp; Leeks 1; Garlic 1 clove; Fresh chili pepper 1; Fresh ginger 0.7 oz

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Lactose Free

Difficulty: Easy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Makes: 10 pieces
Cost: Low

PRESENTATION

Asian cabbage rolls have somehow made their way into Italian kitchens—especially in winter—and they're like a fun, tasty twist on appetizers. Seriously good. In northern Italy, folks have been giving their classic involtini di verza an Asian twist. Instead of the usual Italian flavors, they toss in pork and shrimp, fresh ginger, and a splash of soy sauce. It’s all about that tangy kick. And listen, the cabbage? It is blanched just enough to keep it crispy yet pliable—no soggy mess here. Pretty simple.

This dish is a winner for dinner parties. It mixes bold Asian flavors with Italian touches, which is great because it feels like a fusion of homemade dumplings and Chinese cabbage rolls. If you're into experimenting with apps, these Asian cabbage rolls are super versatile. Some Italian families throw in sausage or a meat mix, while others just stick to veggies for a more moist filling. I mean, the real magic? It's in the grated ginger before baking—so so fresh. It really complements that earthy cabbage.

Baking gets them golden outside. And you know what? Dipping them in extra soy sauce or a simple dip just amps up the flavor. They're easy to prep ahead, and leftovers stay just as tender the next day. No question. Call them steamed cabbage rolls or just a fun twist on napa cabbage recipes, these bites beautifully blend Italian tradition with new flavors. Sharing these at a party? Always sparks conversation. For sure. Especially when guests find out how nicely Italian and Asian ingredients come together. So here's the thing: it’s a sweet way to try something new while keeping that cozy, homemade vibe. Next time you're planning a get-together, seriously consider these rolls—best of both worlds, right in one bite.

How to prepare Oriental Cabbage Rolls

To prepare the oriental rolls, first make a sauté with oil, garlic, and chili pepper. Heat to infuse the flavors, then add the meat and sausage 2. Use the edge of a spoon to crumble it 3.

Add a sliced leek 4, stir and deglaze with soy sauce. Cook for about ten minutes, stirring often, until the meat is well browned. Then, remove the garlic 5 and set aside in a bowl 6.

Gently detach the leaves from the cabbage 7, removing any outer ones if damaged. You'll need 10. Blanch a few at a time 8 cooking them for 4-5 minutes. Drain them gently with tongs 9 and remove excess water, being careful not to break the leaves; you can pat them dry with a paper towel.

Lay a cabbage leaf on a cutting board and place the filling at the bottom 10. Fold the side edges 11 and roll it up 12.

In this way, you'll have your first cabbage roll 13. Continue like this for all the others and gradually arrange them in a baking dish. Season with a pinch of salt, grated ginger 14, and a drizzle of oil. Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes in static mode.