Asian Cabbage Rolls (No Wrapper Dumplings) – Savory, Tender & Flavorful

If you love dumplings and cabbage rolls, then you’re going to fall head over heels for Asian Cabbage Rolls (No Wrapper Dumplings). These rolls bring all the delicious, savory flavors of classic cabbage rolls but without the hassle of wrapping them in leaves. Instead, we’ve created a simple, deconstructed version that’s just as flavorful and much easier to prepare.

In this recipe, ground meat, aromatic vegetables, and seasoned rice are combined with the savory taste of Asian-inspired flavors, like soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger, all cooked together with tender cabbage. The result? An incredibly flavor-packed, healthy dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for any meal.

These Asian cabbage rolls are great for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving something warm, filling, and nourishing. Ready to try a new twist on an old favorite? Let’s dive into this easy recipe!

Why You’ll Love These Asian Cabbage Rolls

• No Wrappers, Less Fuss: No need to spend time carefully rolling each cabbage leaf. This recipe takes a shortcut without sacrificing flavor.
• Packed with Flavor: With ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil, these cabbage rolls are bursting with the savory, umami goodness of Asian flavors.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with cabbage, ground meat, and vegetables, these rolls are full of nutrients and protein, making them a wholesome and satisfying meal.
• Easy to Make: The process is simple, requiring minimal effort but delivering big flavor in every bite. It’s perfect for busy nights or when you want to impress guests with something unique.

Ingredients for Asian Cabbage Rolls (No Wrapper Dumplings)

This recipe uses basic, easy-to-find ingredients that create rich, complex flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 1 medium head of cabbage (about 6-8 large leaves, sliced thinly)
• 1 lb (450g) ground pork or ground beef (you can also use chicken or turkey)
• 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine rice works well)
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated (optional, but adds great flavor)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (adds richness)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt to taste

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (for umami richness)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (for tang)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (to balance the acidity)
• 1/2 cup water or chicken broth (for a flavorful base)
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (for extra flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon chili paste or sriracha (optional, for heat)
• Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)

How to Make Asian Cabbage Rolls (No Wrapper Dumplings)

This recipe is super simple and requires just a few easy steps to bring together. Here’s how to make Asian Cabbage Rolls (No Wrapper Dumplings):

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

1. Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage and cut out the core. Slice the cabbage into thin strips, roughly 1/2-inch wide. You want the cabbage to be tender but not overly wilted, so don’t overcook it.
2. Blanch the cabbage by boiling it in a large pot of water for 3-4 minutes until it softens slightly, but still has some crunch. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground pork (or beef), cooked rice, shredded carrots, green onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and pepper.
2. Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients together until well combined. Taste the mixture and add salt or more soy sauce if needed.

Step 3: Cook the Cabbage Rolls

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a bit of sesame oil to grease the pan. You can also use vegetable oil if preferred.
2. Once the pan is hot, add the cabbage strips and cook them, stirring occasionally, for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften and become fragrant.
3. Add the meat and rice filling to the pan, mixing it into the cabbage. Cook everything together for about 7-10 minutes until the meat is fully cooked and the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally to make sure the mixture cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the pan.
4. Adjust the seasoning as needed—add more soy sauce, pepper, or a touch of sugar for sweetness.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and water (or chicken broth).
2. Add the sauce to the skillet with the cabbage and meat mixture. Stir to coat everything with the sauce and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the cabbage becomes tender.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Once everything is cooked and well coated in the sauce, remove from heat.
2. Serve the Asian cabbage rolls with a garnish of fresh cilantro or sliced green onions. A sprinkle of sesame seeds can also add a nice touch.
3. Serve as a stand-alone dish or with steamed rice, noodles, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Why This Recipe Works

These Asian Cabbage Rolls (No Wrapper Dumplings) work because they combine the savory richness of ground meat, the satisfying crunch of cabbage, and the tender, flavorful rice, all brought together with a savory sauce. The soy sauce and sesame oil infuse the filling with a distinct Asian flavor, while the addition of ginger, garlic, and green onions adds an aromatic complexity that makes this dish incredibly satisfying.

The deconstructed style of these cabbage rolls makes them much easier to prepare than traditional cabbage rolls, but they still deliver all the comforting, hearty flavors. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, these cabbage rolls are sure to impress!

Customizing Your Asian Cabbage Rolls

This recipe is very adaptable! Here are a few ways to customize it to your tastes:

• Add more vegetables: You can add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
• Use different proteins: Swap the pork for chicken, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Make it spicy: Add more chili paste, sriracha, or fresh chopped chilies to the sauce or filling to increase the heat level.
• Use a different type of rice: If you want a healthier option, you can use brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice as the base.

What to Serve with Asian Cabbage Rolls

Here are a few side dishes that pair wonderfully with Asian Cabbage Rolls:

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: This is a classic pairing. The soft, fluffy rice soaks up the flavorful sauce.
• Asian Noodles: Serve your cabbage rolls with a side of stir-fried noodles or rice noodles for a filling meal.
• Asian Slaw: A fresh and crunchy slaw with a tangy dressing would complement the rich flavors of the cabbage rolls.
• Miso Soup: A warm, light soup would balance out the richness of the cabbage rolls and add a comforting touch to the meal.

Conclusion: A Delicious and Easy Twist on Cabbage Rolls

Asian Cabbage Rolls (No Wrapper Dumplings) are an easy, flavorful dish that brings all the comforting elements of traditional cabbage rolls but with a simpler, deconstructed twist. Packed with delicious, savory flavors, tender cabbage, and a rich sauce, these rolls are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner, a healthy meal, or a new dish to impress guests, this recipe is a winner. Ready to get cooking? Try Asian Cabbage Rolls today and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal in no time!

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FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cabbage?

Yes! You can substitute savoy cabbage, bok choy, or Napa cabbage for green cabbage. These varieties are softer and will cook more quickly, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! To make this dish vegetarian, simply substitute the ground meat with tofu or tempeh. You can also add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a heartier filling.

3. How long does the cabbage need to cook?

If you blanch the cabbage before cooking, 3-4 minutes is enough to soften the leaves. Once added to the skillet with the filling, the cabbage will continue to cook and absorb all the flavors from the sauce.

4. Can I use ground turkey instead of pork?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey, ground chicken, or ground beef for the pork. The Asian flavors in the recipe will complement any of these proteins.

5. Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just assemble the cabbage rolls and cook them when you’re ready to eat.

6. How can I make the dish spicier?

To make it spicier, add more sriracha, chili paste, or fresh chopped chilies to the filling or sauce. Adjust the heat to your liking.

7. Can I freeze Asian Cabbage Rolls?

Yes, these cabbage rolls freeze well! To freeze, cook them fully, then allow them to cool before placing them in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months and reheat in the microwave or steam when ready to serve.

8. What can I serve with these cabbage rolls?

These rolls pair beautifully with steamed rice, noodles, or an Asian-style slaw. You can also serve them with a light miso soup or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

9. Can I make these without rice?

Yes! You can make a low-carb version of the cabbage rolls by omitting the rice. Use extra vegetables or cauliflower rice as a substitute for the traditional rice filling.

10. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover Asian Cabbage Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. If you have leftover sauce, keep it separately to pour over when reheating.