Cabbage Leaves Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Ideas

Cabbage leaves are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be transformed into delicious vegetarian dishes with ease. Whether you’re looking for a light appetizer or a wholesome main course, cabbage leaves provide a wonderful base for a variety of fillings and preparations.

They’re not only packed with vitamins and fiber but also add a satisfying crunch and subtle earthiness to your meals. In this recipe post, we’ll explore a delightful vegetarian cabbage leaves recipe that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

This dish brings together fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and comforting spices wrapped in tender cabbage leaves, making it a hearty and healthy choice for anyone looking to enjoy plant-based cuisine.

From steaming to stuffing and rolling, this recipe is simple enough for beginners but flavorful enough to impress seasoned cooks. You’ll love how easy it is to customize the filling with your favorite veggies and grains, and the method works great for meal prep too.

Plus, cabbage leaves are budget-friendly and widely available year-round, making this recipe a reliable go-to in your vegetarian meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cabbage leaves are the unsung heroes of the vegetable world. They’re not only packed with nutrients but also incredibly adaptable.

Here’s why this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Nutritious & Low-Calorie: Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, helping you eat healthily without sacrificing flavor.
• Vegetarian & Vegan Friendly: This recipe is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegetarians and vegans alike.
• Easy to Customize: You can swap or add ingredients like mushrooms, rice, or lentils to suit your taste or pantry.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These stuffed cabbage leaves store well in the fridge or freezer, making them great for busy weekdays.
• Delicious Comfort Food: Warm, savory, and satisfying, this dish offers a comforting meal without heaviness.

Ingredients

• 12 large cabbage leaves (green or savoy cabbage works well)
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
• 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake)
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown lentils)
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup tomato sauce (for baking)
• Juice of 1 lemon

Equipment

• Large pot (for blanching cabbage leaves)
• Large mixing bowl
• Frying pan or skillet
• Baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches)
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Aluminum foil (optional, for baking)

Instructions

1. Prepare the cabbage leaves: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully separate 12 large cabbage leaves from the head. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until soft and pliable. Drain and set aside on a clean towel to cool.
2. Cook the filling vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add mushrooms and carrot: Stir in the chopped mushrooms and grated carrot. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and it evaporates, about 6-7 minutes. Season with salt, smoked paprika, cumin, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Combine filling ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cooked lentils, sautéed vegetables, and chopped parsley. Add the juice of one lemon and mix thoroughly. Adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Stuff the cabbage leaves: Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a cutting board. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling mixture in the center of the leaf. Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly from the bottom to the top, similar to rolling a burrito. Repeat with all leaves and filling.
6. Assemble in baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread half of the tomato sauce evenly on the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam side down in the dish. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the rolls to cover them.
7. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
8. Serve warm: Let the rolls cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your hearty vegetarian cabbage leaves!

Tips & Variations

For easier rolling, make sure the cabbage leaves are thoroughly blanched and pliable. If you find the veins too thick, shave them down slightly with a knife.

You can swap quinoa for bulgur, couscous, or even cooked barley for different textures. For added protein, try incorporating finely chopped tofu or tempeh into the filling.

If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili powder to the filling mixture. For a Mediterranean twist, include chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese (omit for vegan version).

Instead of baking, you can steam the stuffed cabbage leaves for 20 minutes and serve with a tangy yogurt sauce or tahini dressing.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian cabbage leaves dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and warm crusty bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside a light soup or roasted root vegetables for a cozy dinner.

For added zest, drizzle a little extra lemon juice or a dollop of vegan sour cream on top. If you enjoy dips, a side of tzatziki or a smoky red pepper sauce can elevate the flavors even more.

Looking for more delicious plant-based ideas? Check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or try the Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food for more cozy vegetarian meals.

Conclusion

Stuffed cabbage leaves are a timeless dish that offers a delightful combination of texture, flavor, and nutrition, especially in vegetarian form. This recipe proves that eating plant-based doesn’t have to be complicated or bland.

The combination of hearty grains, savory mushrooms, and fresh herbs wrapped in tender cabbage leaves delivers a satisfying and wholesome meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, entertaining guests, or meal prepping for the week, these cabbage rolls are sure to impress. Plus, they’re easy to customize and can be adapted to fit your dietary preferences.

Don’t forget to explore more flavorful recipes like our Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes or the comforting Muthiya Kadhi Recipe to broaden your vegetarian cooking repertoire. Enjoy your culinary journey with cabbage leaves and happy cooking!

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