Cabbage rolls are a beloved dish around the world, but this Thai-inspired version adds a flavorful twist with its aromatic herbs, spices, and a rich red curry coconut sauce. Combining tender ground turkey with fragrant jasmine rice, cilantro, and mushrooms, these cabbage rolls are steamed to perfection and bathed in a luscious curry-infused sauce. The exotic flavors of ginger, lemongrass, and lime leaves bring a taste of Thailand to your table. This dish is perfect for those who want to enjoy a comforting yet exotic meal that’s packed with savory, tangy, and mildly spicy flavors.
Ingredients:
Cabbage Rolls:
- ⅓ cup jasmine rice
- 1 head large green cabbage
- 1 ½ pounds ground turkey
- 1 cup finely chopped button mushrooms
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped ginger
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Red Curry Coconut Sauce:
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 stalk lemongrass, smashed
- 2 lime leaves
- 1 tablespoon thinly sliced ginger
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons chili crisp or chili oil (optional, for heat)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Jasmine Rice:
Cook the jasmine rice according to the package instructions and set it aside to cool. It will be combined with the turkey filling for the cabbage rolls.
2. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves:
Remove the core of the cabbage and carefully peel off 12 large, intact leaves. Blanch the cabbage leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, just until they become pliable but still firm.
3. Make the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, cooked jasmine rice, finely chopped mushrooms, cilantro, egg, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, fish sauce, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well incorporated.
4. Assemble the Cabbage Rolls:
Place about 3 tablespoons of the turkey mixture in the center of the leaf. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top, securing the filling inside. Repeat this process with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
5. Steam the Cabbage Rolls:
Place the cabbage rolls in a steamer basket or on a plate that fits into a large pot. Cover the pot and steam the cabbage rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until the turkey is fully cooked through.
6. Make the Red Curry Coconut Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, combine the chicken stock, coconut milk, smashed lemongrass, lime leaves, sliced ginger, red curry paste, fish sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Place the steamed cabbage rolls on a serving platter. Spoon the warm red curry coconut sauce generously over the rolls. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and drizzle with chili crisp or chili oil if you prefer a bit of extra heat.
Conclusion:
These Thai-inspired cabbage rolls are a delightful blend of fresh, vibrant flavors and comforting textures. The ground turkey and rice filling, paired with the aromatic red curry coconut sauce, create a dish that’s satisfying, exotic, and wholesome. The mild heat from the curry, balanced by the creamy coconut milk, elevates the tender cabbage rolls into a unique and flavorful meal. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish brings a touch of Thai cuisine to your kitchen, offering a delightful departure from the traditional cabbage roll.