These Cabbage Rolls with Egg and Noodle Filling are a creative and delicious twist on traditional cabbage rolls, using simple ingredients like cabbage, carrots, green onions, and noodles. The cabbage rolls are fried to a crispy golden brown and are packed with a flavorful egg and noodle mixture. Perfect for a light meal or appetizer, these cabbage rolls are both tasty and nutritious, with a unique combination of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more.
Preparation, Cooking, and Total Times:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes (frying)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, Vegetarian
Ingredients:
- 270g cabbage, washed and chopped
- 150g carrots, grated
- 30g green onion, chopped
- 1 pack of instant noodles
- Hot water (for noodles)
- Black pepper, 1/6 tsp
- Salt, 1/5 tsp
- Seasoning powder, 1/3 tsp
- 2 eggs
- Rice paper for wrapping
- Cooking oil, for frying
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions:
1. Prepare the Cabbage and Vegetables:
- Wash and chop the cabbage into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Grate the carrots using a grater or food processor to get fine strips.
- Slice the green onions into small pieces.
2. Prepare the Noodles:
- Boil water and pour it over the instant noodles in a bowl. Let it sit for about 2 minutes.
- Stir the noodles well, then remove them from the bowl and set them aside. Once cooled, cut them into small pieces for easier rolling inside the cabbage rolls.
3. Prepare the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cabbage, grated carrots, green onions, and the cut noodles.
- Season with black pepper, salt, and seasoning powder.
- Crack the 2 eggs into the mixture and mix everything together well to bind the filling.
4. Prepare the Rice Paper:
- Spread rice paper on a flat surface, such as a clean kitchen counter or cutting board.
- Dip each rice paper in a shallow dish of water to soften it for easy rolling.
5. Assemble the Cabbage Rolls:
- Scoop a portion of the cabbage and egg mixture onto the center of each softened rice paper.
- Roll the rice paper tightly around the filling, folding in the edges as you go, similar to making spring rolls.
- Repeat the process with the remaining rice papers and filling until all the rolls are assembled.
6. Fry the Cabbage Rolls:
- Heat cooking oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, place the cabbage rolls into the pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Fry the cabbage rolls, turning occasionally with chopsticks or tongs, until all sides are golden brown and crispy. This should take about 8 minutes.
7. Serve:
- Once fried, remove the cabbage rolls from the pan and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve the cabbage rolls hot, either as a standalone dish or with a dipping sauce like soy sauce or a sweet chili sauce for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
-
With a Dipping Sauce:
Serve these cabbage rolls with a tangy soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or a garlic and vinegar dipping sauce for extra flavor. -
As a Snack or Appetizer:
These rolls are perfect for snacking or as an appetizer at a party. Serve them with a side of fresh herb salad or pickled vegetables. -
With Steamed Rice:
For a more filling meal, serve the cabbage rolls alongside a bowl of steamed rice or quinoa to make it a complete dish. -
Pair with a Drink:
A glass of iced tea or green tea pairs wonderfully with the freshness and lightness of these cabbage rolls.
Health Benefits:
-
Rich in Fiber:
The cabbage and carrots provide a healthy dose of fiber, which supports digestion and helps to keep you full longer. -
Low in Calories:
These cabbage rolls are low in calories, making them a great option for those watching their calorie intake or looking for a light, healthy meal. -
Packed with Vitamins:
The carrots provide a good source of vitamin A, while the green onions offer vitamin C and antioxidants that help boost immunity and skin health. -
Protein from Eggs:
The eggs in the filling add protein, which is essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall health.
Cooking Tips:
-
Soften the Rice Paper Well:
Make sure to soften the rice paper well by dipping it in warm water long enough to make it pliable, but not too long to make it tear easily. -
Don’t Overstuff the Rolls:
Be mindful of the amount of filling in each rice paper to prevent tearing while rolling. A small spoonful is usually enough. -
Use Medium Heat for Frying:
Fry the cabbage rolls over medium heat to ensure they cook evenly and become golden brown without burning. -
Check the Oil Temperature:
To avoid greasy cabbage rolls, ensure that the oil is hot enough before frying. You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of rice paper into it—if it sizzles, the oil is ready. -
Make Ahead and Freeze:
You can prepare the rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Just freeze them before frying, then fry directly from the freezer when ready to eat.
Variations to Try:
-
Add More Vegetables:
Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the filling for extra nutrition and flavor. -
Use Tofu for a Vegan Option:
Replace the eggs and chicken with tofu for a vegan-friendly version. Add more vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a hearty filling. -
Spicy Version:
Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling to give it an extra kick. -
Different Fillings:
Swap the cabbage for rice paper and fill with a mixture of ground meat (beef, chicken, or turkey), rice, and herbs for a more traditional filling.
Conclusion:
These Cabbage Rolls with Egg and Noodle Filling are an easy-to-make, deliciously crispy dish that will surely satisfy your cravings. With their light yet savory filling and crispy exterior, they make the perfect snack or meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, these cabbage rolls will be a hit! Don’t forget to experiment with different fillings, seasonings, and dipping sauces to make the dish your own.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
-
Can I use different vegetables in the filling?
Yes, feel free to add spinach, bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for more variety and nutrition. -
Can I make these cabbage rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freeze them before frying. Fry them when you are ready to eat. -
Can I make these rolls vegan?
Yes, substitute the eggs with tofu or a plant-based egg alternative, and use vegan cheese if desired. -
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop for best results. -
Can I fry these in the oven instead of on the stove?
Yes, you can bake the rolls in the oven at 180°C (355°F) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness. -
Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, you can use rice noodles or soba noodles instead of instant noodles for a different texture and flavor. -
How do I prevent the rice paper from tearing?
Make sure to dip the rice paper in water long enough to soften it without over-soaking it, and don’t overstuff the rolls. -
Can I freeze the cabbage rolls?
Yes, prepare and freeze the cabbage rolls before frying. When ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes of cooking time. -
Can I add meat to the filling?
Yes, you can add cooked ground meat (beef, chicken, or turkey) to the filling for added protein. -
What kind of dipping sauce can I serve with these cabbage rolls?
Serve with soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or garlic vinegar sauce for a delicious dipping experience.