Cigar Rolls Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Ideas

If you’re looking for a delicious, crispy, and satisfying vegetarian appetizer or snack, these vegetarian cigar rolls are a must-try! Traditionally made with meat fillings wrapped in thin dough and fried until golden, our vegetarian version packs a flavorful punch without compromising on texture or taste.

Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a light lunch, or just craving something crunchy and savory, these rolls will become your new favorite go-to recipe.

Filled with a vibrant mix of vegetables, herbs, and fragrant spices, these rolls offer a perfect balance of fresh and warm flavors wrapped in a crisp shell. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make and versatile enough to customize to your preference.

So get ready to roll up your sleeves and create a vegetarian delight that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These vegetarian cigar rolls are a fantastic way to enjoy a tasty snack without any meat. They are:

• Crunchy and golden on the outside, providing that irresistible texture.
• Rich in flavor thanks to fresh vegetables, garlic, and aromatic spices.
• Versatile – easy to adapt based on what you have in your pantry or fridge.
• Perfect for entertaining or as a quick weekday snack.
• Vegetarian and customizable to accommodate different dietary preferences.

Plus, these rolls freeze well, making them great for prepping ahead of time. If you love crispy fried snacks, you’ll find this recipe both satisfying and rewarding to make!

Ingredients

• 10 sheets of phyllo or spring roll pastry (thawed if frozen)
• 1 cup finely shredded cabbage
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas, mashed slightly
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for sealing)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Knife and grater (for prepping vegetables)
• Frying pan or deep fryer
• Spatula or slotted spoon
• Paper towels (for draining excess oil)
• Baking tray (optional, for resting before frying)
• Brush (for applying cornstarch glue)

Instructions

1. Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrot, mashed chickpeas, chopped onion, minced garlic, and fresh cilantro. Stir in the soy sauce, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Prepare the pastry sheets: If using phyllo, keep the sheets covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying. Lay one sheet flat on a clean surface. If too large, cut it in half lengthwise to form long rectangles suitable for rolling.
3. Assemble the rolls: Place about 2 tablespoons of the vegetable filling near one edge of the pastry rectangle. Fold the sides inwards to encase the filling, then roll tightly like a cigar. Seal the edge with the cornstarch paste using a small brush or your finger to ensure the roll stays closed during frying.
4. Heat the oil: Pour enough oil into a frying pan or deep fryer to cover the rolls halfway. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). To test, drop a small piece of pastry into the oil – it should sizzle and float to the top.
5. Fry the rolls: Carefully place a few rolls into the hot oil without overcrowding the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crisp. Use a slotted spoon or spatula to turn them gently for even cooking.
6. Drain excess oil: Remove the rolls and place them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Repeat the frying process with the remaining rolls.
7. Serve warm: Enjoy your vegetarian cigar rolls hot, paired with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

For a healthier alternative, you can bake these rolls at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through to achieve a crisp texture without frying.

• Feel free to swap the chickpeas for cooked lentils or black beans to change up the protein source.
• Add finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra veggies and nutrients.
• Spice it up by adding a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
• Serve with homemade or store-bought dipping sauces like sweet chili, soy-ginger, or a tangy tamarind dip.
• Try using different wrappers such as spring roll pastry or even thin tortilla wraps if phyllo is unavailable.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vegetarian cigar rolls are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. For a casual snack, serve them with a bowl of Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe to add a zesty kick.

For a more substantial meal, pair these rolls with a fresh salad inspired by the Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe, or serve alongside a hearty vegetable stew. They also make a great appetizer before dishes like the Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe for your non-vegetarian guests.

Conclusion

Vegetarian cigar rolls are a delightful snack that combines the crispiness of a fried shell with the savory goodness of fresh vegetables and spices. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also highly adaptable, allowing you to tailor the filling to your taste and dietary needs.

Whether served at a party, as a light lunch, or a quick snack, these rolls are sure to impress with their texture and flavor.

With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can make these vegetarian delights at home and enjoy a crunchy, flavorful treat. Don’t forget to experiment with different vegetables and spices, and pair the rolls with your favorite dipping sauces for an even more exciting experience.

Happy cooking!

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