Sweet and Sour Cabbage Rolls with Pork and Pineapp
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~320 kcal
Ingredients📝
• 8–10 large cabbage leaves, blanched
• 250 g ground pork
• ½ cup pineapple chunks, finely diced
• 1 small carrot, julienned
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• ½ tsp sesame oil
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
Sweet and Sour Glaze
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp sugar or honey
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
Garnish
• Chopped green onions
• Sesame seeds (optional)
Directions📍
Blanch cabbage leaves in boiling water until pliable, then drain and cool.
Heat sesame oil in a pan and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
Add ground pork and cook until browned.
Stir in carrots, pineapple, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat.
Place a portion of the filling on each cabbage leaf and roll tightly, tucking in the sides.
Arrange rolls in a steaming plate or shallow pan.
Combine vinegar, ketchup, sugar, soy sauce, and cornstarch mixture in a small saucepan.
Cook over medium heat, stirring until glaze thickens and becomes glossy.
Brush or pour glaze over cabbage rolls evenly.
Steam or bake rolls for 10–12 minutes until filling is cooked and cabbage is tender.
Serve immediately, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, highlighting sticky glossy glaze, vibrant colors, and playful Asian comfort food vibe.
If you're looking to bring a fresh twist to classic cabbage rolls, this sweet and sour version with pineapple offers a delightful balance of savory and tangy flavors. The addition of pineapple chunks not only adds natural sweetness but also tenderizes the pork filling, making each bite juicy and flavorful. When preparing the filling, ensure the pork is cooked thoroughly and the garlic and ginger are well sautéed to bring out their aroma. I recommend using fresh ginger to get that authentic zing which pairs wonderfully with the pineapple's sweetness. For a healthier option, you can substitute ground pork with lean ground turkey or chicken, adjusting the seasoning accordingly. The sweet and sour glaze is key to achieving the glossy, appetizing finish. Rice vinegar adds the tang, while ketchup provides a mild sweetness and depth. You can experiment with honey instead of sugar for a natural sweetener that complements the flavors. Mixing cornstarch with water before adding it to the glaze helps create a smooth, thickened sauce to coat the rolls evenly. In terms of cooking, steaming helps maintain moisture and tenderness of both cabbage and filling, but baking at 350°F can also be effective if you prefer a slightly caramelized exterior on the rolls. Make sure to cover the dish to keep them moist if opting to bake. For extra garnish and texture, toasted sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions add both visual appeal and a slight crunch to each serving. Paired with a light side of steamed jasmine rice or a crisp cucumber salad, these cabbage rolls make for a colorful and satisfying Asian-inspired meal. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy making vibrant, playful comfort foods that are quick to prepare and packed with balanced flavors. It’s also an excellent dish for family dinners or casual entertaining, bringing a bit of exotic flair to your table with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
🍋🔥🥰😍😍❤️