Cabbage Main Dish Recipes Vegetarian Lovers Will Enjoy

Cabbage is often overlooked as a main ingredient, but it’s a wonderfully versatile vegetable that can star in hearty, satisfying vegetarian dishes. Whether you love it sautéed, baked, or stuffed, cabbage brings a mild sweetness and a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with a range of herbs, spices, and other vegetables.

In this blog post, we’ll explore several delicious cabbage main dish recipes that are entirely vegetarian, perfect for those looking to add more plant-based meals to their repertoire.

From comforting cabbage stir-fries to rich, flavorful stuffed cabbage rolls, these recipes highlight cabbage’s ability to absorb and complement bold flavors. Not only is cabbage budget-friendly and widely available, it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a smart choice for wholesome meals.

Ready to discover creative ways to make cabbage the star of your dinner table? Let’s dive into these mouthwatering recipes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cabbage main dishes offer a perfect blend of nutrition, flavor, and ease. Cabbage is low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants, which support a healthy immune system and digestion.

These vegetarian recipes maximize cabbage’s natural taste while combining it with complementary ingredients to keep each dish balanced and exciting.

Whether you’re a busy professional seeking quick weeknight meals or a passionate home cook experimenting with plant-based cuisine, these recipes are approachable and adaptable. Plus, cabbage’s hearty texture means your dishes will be filling and satisfying without needing meat.

Each recipe can be tailored to your taste preferences, dietary needs, and available ingredients, making cabbage a versatile choice for any kitchen.

Ingredients

Recipe 1: Sautéed Garlic Cabbage

• 1 medium head of green cabbage, shredded
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Recipe 2: Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

• 1 large head of cabbage
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Recipe 3: Cabbage and Chickpea Curry

• 1/2 head green cabbage, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Equipment

• Large sauté pan or skillet
• Large pot (for boiling cabbage leaves)
• Mixing bowls
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Baking dish (for stuffed cabbage rolls)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Recipe 1: Sautéed Garlic Cabbage

1. Prepare the cabbage: Remove any tough outer leaves and shred the cabbage into thin strips.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add shredded cabbage to the skillet. Toss to coat with oil and garlic, cooking for about 8-10 minutes until the cabbage softens but still retains some bite.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Stir well.
5. Drizzle apple cider vinegar over the cabbage and stir again. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Recipe 2: Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare cabbage leaves: Bring a large pot of water to boil. Carefully separate the cabbage leaves and blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until pliable. Drain and set aside.
3. Make filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and garlic until translucent.
4. Mix filling: In a bowl, combine cooked rice, lentils, sautéed onion and garlic, tomato paste, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Assemble rolls: Place a spoonful of filling onto the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold in sides and roll tightly.
6. Arrange rolls seam side down in a baking dish. Pour diced tomatoes over the rolls.
7. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Recipe 3: Cabbage and Chickpea Curry

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and ginger, sauté until fragrant and softened.
2. Add curry powder and turmeric, stirring for 1 minute to release aromas.
3. Add chopped cabbage and chickpeas. Stir well to coat with spices.
4. Pour in coconut milk, season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes until cabbage is tender.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor in the stuffed cabbage rolls, try adding chopped mushrooms or walnuts to the filling mixture.

If you want a spicier curry, increase the curry powder or add fresh chopped chili peppers.

Try using red cabbage for a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color in any of these recipes.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These cabbage dishes can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of sides to complement their flavors. The sautéed garlic cabbage pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or a simple quinoa salad.

The stuffed cabbage rolls make a complete meal but can also be served alongside roasted root vegetables or a fresh green salad for extra crunch and color.

For the cabbage and chickpea curry, serve it over steamed basmati rice or with warm naan bread for a comforting, filling meal.

Looking for more vegetarian inspiration? Check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or try the vibrant Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food to keep your meals exciting.

Conclusion

Cabbage is a fantastic vegetable to feature as the star of your vegetarian main dishes. Its subtle sweetness and satisfying texture make it a perfect canvas for a variety of flavors, from smoky garlic sauté to hearty stuffed rolls and fragrant curries.

Not only do these recipes bring delicious tastes to your table, but they also provide wholesome nutrition that supports a healthy lifestyle.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your week, these cabbage recipes offer something for everyone. Embrace the versatility of cabbage and enjoy the creative possibilities it brings to your kitchen.

For more delicious recipes and culinary ideas, don’t forget to explore our diverse collection of dishes like the Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes and the delightful Maple Bourbon Pickles Recipe. Happy cooking!

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