Veg Cabbage Rolls Recipe Easy and Delicious Ideas

If you’re searching for a wholesome, comforting dish that bursts with flavor and nutrition, veg cabbage rolls are a perfect choice. These delightful parcels combine tender cabbage leaves with a savory vegetable filling, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and light.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more vibrant plant-based meals to your menu, this recipe offers a beautiful balance of textures and tastes. Wrapped in nutrient-rich cabbage and simmered in a luscious tomato sauce, these rolls are perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Not only are these rolls delicious, but they’re also incredibly versatile. You can customize the filling with your favorite vegetables and grains, making it a great way to use up what’s in your fridge.

Plus, they’re gluten-free and vegan-friendly, catering to a variety of dietary needs without compromising on flavor. Ready to dive in and impress your taste buds?

Let’s roll!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Veg cabbage rolls are a timeless classic with a nutritious twist. Here’s why this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Healthy and wholesome: Packed with fresh vegetables, beans, and herbs, these rolls provide a rich source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
• Comfort food with a light touch: The cabbage leaves add a subtle crunch and freshness that balances the hearty filling and rich tomato sauce.
• Customizable and adaptable: Easily swap ingredients like rice, quinoa, or lentils; add spices or herbs to match your favorite flavor profiles.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and refrigerate or freeze for quick, nutritious meals throughout the week.
• Impress guests: Beautifully presented, these rolls are perfect for dinner parties or cozy family meals.

Ingredients

• 1 large head of green cabbage
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated carrots
• 1 cup cooked lentils or black beans
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups tomato sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon

Equipment

• Large pot (for boiling cabbage leaves)
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish or casserole pan
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Knife and chopping board
• Colander or slotted spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Prepare the cabbage leaves: Bring a large pot of water to boil. Carefully core the cabbage and separate the leaves gently. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for about 2 minutes until pliable. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. Make the filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant. Add mushrooms and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add carrots, lentils, and spices: Stir in grated carrots, cooked lentils (or black beans), smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, mixing well. Remove from heat and stir in cooked brown rice and fresh parsley. Add lemon juice for brightness.
4. Assemble the rolls: Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Place about 2 tablespoons of filling near the base of the leaf. Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly from the base to the tip. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
5. Arrange in baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Place the cabbage rolls seam side down in the dish. Pour remaining tomato sauce evenly over the rolls.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the rolls are tender and heated through.
7. Serve warm: Let the cabbage rolls rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

“For easier rolling, trim the thick vein at the base of each cabbage leaf with a knife to make it more flexible.”

• Grain options: Substitute brown rice with quinoa, bulgur wheat, or couscous for a different texture and flavor.
• Beans and legumes: Try chickpeas or kidney beans instead of lentils or black beans for variety.
• Spice it up: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Cheesy twist: For vegetarians who eat dairy, sprinkle some grated cheese like mozzarella or Parmesan on top before baking.
• Slow cooker alternative: Layer the rolls in a slow cooker, cover with tomato sauce, and cook on low for 4-6 hours for a hands-off approach. For more slow cooker meal ideas, check out our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your veg cabbage rolls as a complete meal or pair them with some delicious sides. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables complement the rich tomato sauce beautifully.

For a heartier option, serve with a dollop of creamy vegan béchamel sauce — try our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes for a quick homemade version.

For a cozy, bread-based accompaniment, warm some soft vegan bread alongside your cabbage rolls. Our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves is perfect for making fresh bread at home.

If you want a little extra flavor boost, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to brighten the dish.

Conclusion

Veg cabbage rolls are more than just a meal — they’re a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients wrapped in a beautiful, comforting package. This recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for entertaining guests.

Packed with nutritious vegetables, fiber-rich grains, and savory spices, these rolls provide a satisfying meal that’s both nourishing and delicious.

Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or simply love good food, these cabbage rolls will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the filling ingredients to make this recipe your own.

For more delicious plant-based recipes, explore our collection of Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals or try out our indulgent yet healthy Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.

Happy cooking and enjoy every bite of your homemade veg cabbage rolls!

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