A Nourishing Turkish-Inspired Cabbage Wrap Recipe for Light, Flavorful Eating
Turkish Origin: Lahana Sarması
This recipe draws inspiration from Lahana Sarması, a traditional Turkish dish known for its comforting, homey flavor. In Turkey:
- Cabbage rolls are popular in winter.
- Families gather to roll, steam, and share them together.
- Recipes vary: some use rice, some use meat, some are vegan.
Your version is lighter, modern, and high-protein—yet rooted in the same cultural warmth.
Seasonal Best Time to Make This Recipe
The ideal season is:
WINTER & LATE AUTUMN
Cabbage is freshest, softer, and sweetest in cold weather.
But the recipe is suitable year-round.
There are some recipes that feel comforting from the moment you smell them cooking. These Cabbage Chicken Wraps—soft steamed cabbage leaves filled with juicy spiced chicken mince—are exactly that kind of meal. Light, warming, rich in flavor, but still beautifully balanced for anyone who wants healthy food without giving up taste.
This recipe is inspired by the traditional Turkish dish known as Lahana Sarması, a beloved part of Anatolian cuisine. Turkish cooks are known for taking simple vegetables and transforming them into tender, aromatic bundles of goodness. This version carries the same spirit—soft leaves, delicate seasoning, and gently cooked mince—yet is made slightly lighter to support weight control, clean eating, and everyday wellness.
Whether you’re trying to lose weight, improve digestion, build a healthier lifestyle, or just want a fresh new dinner idea, these cabbage wraps can easily become a weekly favorite.
How I Discovered This Dish
I learned this dish during a winter trip when the air was crisp and the markets were full of fresh produce. Every vendor had piles of shiny green cabbage heads stacked like jewels. One friendly woman told me, “Cabbage is the winter blanket of the body—warm, soft, protective.”
Later that evening, a local home cook showed me how the cabbage leaves soften beautifully when boiled and how they cradle the spiced chicken like a gentle wrap. I tasted the first roll straight from the pan—soft on the inside, crispy on the outside—and instantly understood why this dish has traveled across generations.
That memory stayed with me. And every time I make these wraps, I feel the warmth of that kitchen and the simple joy of comfort food.
Why This Recipe Works
- Light yet satisfying: high protein + low carb
- Gut-friendly: cabbage supports digestion
- Versatile: works for lunch, dinner, or meal prep
- Healthy cooking method: steaming preserves nutrients
- Authentic flavor: inspired by Turkish Lahana Sarması
Who Can Eat This Dish?
✔ People trying to lose weight
✔ Diabetics (low carb)
✔ People with digestion issues (cabbage eases bloating when cooked)
✔ Kids (mild spices, soft texture)
✔ Elderly individuals
✔ Fitness and gym lovers
✔ Those avoiding rice, pasta, or heavy meals
Avoid only if:
- You have severe gastric sensitivities to cabbage
- You are advised against cruciferous vegetables
Weight-Loss Benefits
This recipe supports weight loss in several ways:
1. Low Calorie + High Protein
Protein boosts metabolism, reduces hunger, and maintains muscle.
2. Low Carb
Great replacement for calorie-dense bread, wraps, or rice.
3. Rich in Fiber
Cabbage improves gut movement and reduces cravings.
4. Clean Ingredients
No heavy sauces. No frying in deep oil. No cream.
5. Keeps You Full Longer
The combination of steam + protein works like magic for satiety.
How Much Can One Person Eat?
For weight loss:
2–3 wraps per meal are ideal.
For regular eating:
3–4 wraps comfortably.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients
Cabbage
- Rich in vitamins C, K
- Anti-inflammatory
- Supports healthy digestion
- Boosts immunity
- Excellent for gut healing
Chicken Mince
- Lean protein
- Helps muscle building
- Keeps you full longer
- Low in calories
Olive Oil
- Good fats
- Heart-friendly
- Helps nutrient absorption
Onion, Spices & Herbs
- Improve metabolism
- Add natural flavor
- Support immune function
Recommended Kitchen Tools
- Non-stick pan: https://amzn.to/3YdzHtB
- Stainless steel steaming rack: https://amzn.to/4pkqAU1
- Large casserole pot: https://amzn.to/3MmQsjy
Healthy Eating Essentials
- Extra-virgin olive oil: https://amzn.to/4oApNNr
- Organic chicken mince: https://amzn.to/4rOLfRW
- Chilli garlic sauce (low sodium): https://amzn.to/4rP5vmo
Weight-Loss Supplements or Products
- Probiotic supplement: https://amzn.to/3YdAt9Z
- Portion-control bowls: https://amzn.to/44IA4QE
- Food scale for calorie tracking: https://amzn.to/49ZKlLT
For more recipes like these, follow down below:
“Lose Weight with Cabbage Chicken Rolls”
Description
These Turkish-inspired steamed cabbage chicken wraps are healthy, high-protein, low-carb, and perfect for weight loss. Easy to prepare, nutritious, and delicious.
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Leaves
For the Filling
For Cooking
Instructions
-
1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
- Gently peel the cabbage leaves and set aside.
- Bring water to a boil and add salt.
- Add the cabbage leaves into the boiling water, cover, and boil for 5 minutes.
- Remove and let them cool.
-
2. Prepare the Chicken Filling
In a bowl, combine:
- Chicken mince
- Chopped onion
- Black pepper
- Red chilli crushed
- Salt
- Garam masala
- Olive oil
Mix until the mince becomes soft and well combined. Add coriander and mix again.
-
3. Wrap the Rolls
- Place a spoonful of filling onto each boiled cabbage leaf.
- Fold the sides inward and roll tightly.
-
4. Steam the Wraps
- Place a rack over boiling water.
- Grease with olive oil.
- Arrange cabbage wraps and steam for 9–10 minutes.
-
5. Pan-Fry for Golden Color
- Heat olive oil in a pan.
- Fry the wraps on both sides until golden.
-
Serve warm with chilli sauce!
Note
Notes & Tips
- Do not over-boil the leaves—they may tear.
- Use fresh mince for best texture.
- Add carrots or mushrooms to the filling for variety.
- Avoid too much salt; cabbage absorbs salt quickly.
- You can bake instead of frying for extra health points.
