Have you ever wondered how to make the most delicious cabbage rolls—with a Dobrogean twist, made with fish?
Well, today I’m sharing with you an authentic recipe from the Danube Delta, simple yet full of flavor, perfect for fish lovers and anyone curious to try something new.
This dish is often served in local restaurants like Restaurant Delta Dunării and is considered a culinary treasure from Northern Dobrogea.
Simple Ingredients for the Tastiest Dobrogean Fish Cabbage Rolls
To make these fish cabbage rolls just like in the heart of the Danube Delta, you only need a few basic ingredients—easy to find, but carefully chosen.
The secret lies in the balance between the rich flavor of the fish and the delicate aromas of the vegetables and herbs.
Here’s what you’ll need for a generous portion that’s sure to impress everyone at the table:
-
1 kg fatty fish fillets – the best options are carp, catfish, or zander. The fish should be fresh, deboned, and finely chopped. If you can get wild fish from the Danube, that’s even more authentic.
-
300 g finely chopped onion – the aromatic base of any good filling.
-
100 g round-grain rice – lightly soaked so it softens during cooking.
-
1 small carrot, grated – adds a subtle sweetness and color.
-
500 g diced tomatoes in tomato juice – for that slightly tangy sauce that wraps around the rolls.
-
2 teaspoons salt, or to taste.
-
A pinch of freshly ground black pepper, for a touch of depth.
-
1 level teaspoon dried thyme – a subtle but signature flavor in Dobrogean recipes.
-
1 egg (or 2–3 tablespoons of cornmeal if you want a vegetarian version) – helps bind the mixture.
-
Chopped fresh dill and parsley – bring freshness and fragrance.
-
Pickled cabbage leaves or vine leaves – for wrapping. Cabbage is heartier, vine leaves are lighter—it’s your call.
💡 Tip: If you want to bring the Danube Delta right to your plate, you can add a bit of lemon juice or zest to the filling for a refreshing local touch.
Let’s Cook Together! Easy Steps for Authentic Fish Cabbage Rolls from the Danube Delta
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking! I promise it’s not complicated — and the result will be worth every minute spent in the kitchen. Just follow these steps and you’ll enjoy flavorful, tender, and truly delicious Dobrogean fish cabbage rolls.
1. Sauté the Vegetables for a Deep Flavor
In a large pan, heat a bit of oil and sauté the chopped onion over low heat until it becomes translucent. Don’t rush it — let it gently release its sweetness. Then add the grated carrot, and after 2–3 minutes, add the well-washed rice. Stir gently so the rice absorbs some of the vegetable flavors.
Season with salt, pepper, and thyme and let it cook for another minute, then turn off the heat.
2. Mix the Filling with the Fish
Transfer the entire mixture into a large bowl. Add the finely chopped fish, along with the egg (or cornmeal) and the chopped herbs (dill and parsley). Mix everything thoroughly with your hand or a wooden spoon until it forms a soft, moldable filling.
💡 Delta Tip: If the mixture feels too soft, add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs or extra cornmeal.
3. Prepare the Leaves and Roll the Cabbage Rolls
Choose the pickled cabbage or vine leaves — rinse them lightly if they’re too salty or sour. Cut them into squares suitable for small rolls.
Place one spoonful of filling in each leaf, then roll tightly, tucking the ends in to prevent them from opening during cooking. They don’t need to be perfect — their rustic charm is part of the appeal.
4. Layer the Rolls in a Pot
At the bottom of a pot (preferably clay or cast iron), place a layer of chopped cabbage or torn vine leaves, then layer the rolls neatly like a puzzle. Between layers, add diced tomatoes in tomato juice and a few bay leaves for extra flavor.
Pour over enough warm water mixed with tomato juice to cover the rolls.
5. Simmer Slowly with Patience
Cover the pot and let everything simmer on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the leaves are soft and the flavors have blended beautifully.
If you want a slightly smoky taste, uncover the pot and bake it for 15–20 minutes at the end.
6. Serve with Polenta, Sour Cream, and Joy
These fish cabbage rolls go wonderfully with warm polenta, a dollop of rich sour cream, and a glass of dry white wine from Dobrogea.
Congratulations! You’ve just made an authentic fish cabbage roll recipe, straight from the Danube Delta! The taste? Light, flavorful, and fresh – with a perfectly balanced texture and a flavor you’ll remember for a long time.
Why Are Fish Cabbage Rolls So Special?
- They are a lighter and healthier alternative to traditional meat-filled cabbage rolls.
- They are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for the heart and brain.
- They fit perfectly into fasting menus that allow fish.
- They have a light, fresh taste, ideal for summer meals in the Danube Delta.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fish Cabbage Rolls
- Can fish cabbage rolls be frozen?
Yes, they freeze very well, both raw and cooked. It’s recommended to portion them into small containers before freezing. - Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes, but choose a fatty fish – carp, catfish, mackerel, or even trout. - What do you serve them with?
They pair perfectly with warm polenta, sour cream, and a dry white wine from Dobrogea.
We’re Waiting for You in the Heart of the Danube Delta at Lebada Luxury Resort & SPA!
Whether you dream of a relaxing vacation in a spectacular setting, are passionate about local cuisine, or want to explore the most beautiful tourist attractions in the Danube Delta, the perfect place awaits you at Lebada Luxury Resort & SPA.
Set in a storybook natural setting, our resort offers you:
-
Premium accommodation in the Delta, perfect for couples, families, or groups of friends
-
Quick access to top tourist attractions in the Danube Delta, including boat trips, birdwatching, and visits to the monasteries of Northern Dobrogea
-
A restaurant specializing in fish dishes, where you can savor the best fish recipes from the Danube Delta, including the famous Dobrogean fish cabbage rolls
Come experience the Delta with all your senses! We welcome you with open arms and authentic flavors that will make you want to return again and again.
Book your stay now at Lebada Luxury Resort & SPA and turn every meal into a memorable experience!
📍 Reservations:
📞 Phone: +407296 69 977
📩 Email: reservations@newlebadaresort.com
