Vegan Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe Easy and Delicious

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a classic comfort food enjoyed around the world, and this vegan stuffed cabbage rolls recipe brings a fresh, plant-based twist to this beloved dish. Packed with wholesome ingredients like lentils, rice, and a medley of vegetables, these rolls are not only hearty and satisfying but also bursting with flavor.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to explore more meatless meal options, this recipe promises a delicious, nutritious, and beautifully presented dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

The process of rolling up the filling inside tender cabbage leaves is surprisingly simple, and the tomato-based sauce adds a perfect tangy finish. Plus, this recipe is great for meal prep and freezes well, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Dive into this delightful vegan comfort food and discover how easy it is to make a dish that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan stuffed cabbage rolls recipe combines nutrition, taste, and visual appeal in one. The recipe uses simple pantry staples like lentils and rice, making it budget-friendly and accessible.

The cabbage leaves become soft and melt-in-your-mouth after baking, while the filling has a satisfying, slightly chewy texture and a rich, savory flavor.

It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet and impress guests with a dish that’s both elegant and wholesome. Additionally, this recipe is gluten-free and oil-free by default, and can easily be customized to suit your preferences.

For more vegan delights, check out our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes and Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas for convenient, flavor-packed meals.

Ingredients

• 1 large head of green cabbage (about 2-3 pounds)
• 1 cup cooked brown or green lentils
• 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 1 celery stalk, finely diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups crushed tomatoes (for sauce)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup vegetable broth

Equipment

• Large pot (for boiling cabbage)
• Large mixing bowl
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking dish (9×13 inch or similar)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander or slotted spoon

Instructions

1. Prepare the cabbage leaves: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully core the cabbage and gently separate the leaves. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until pliable. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. Cook the lentils and rice: If not already cooked, prepare lentils and brown rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In a skillet, heat a splash of water or vegetable broth over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and mushrooms. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the grated carrot and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, tomato paste, smoked paprika, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
5. Assemble the rolls: Lay a cabbage leaf flat and trim the thick vein if necessary. Place about 1/4 cup of filling near the base of the leaf. Fold the sides inward and roll up tightly like a burrito. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
6. Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the crushed tomatoes, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and vegetable broth.
7. Arrange and bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of the baking dish. Place cabbage rolls seam-side down in a single layer. Pour remaining sauce over the rolls.
8. Bake covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45-50 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld together.
9. Serve hot: Allow the rolls to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

For easier rolling, use smaller cabbage leaves and trim the thick vein carefully.

If you want to add some extra texture and flavor, try adding cooked quinoa or finely chopped nuts to the filling. You can also experiment with different herbs like dill or thyme for a unique twist.

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the filling or sauce. To make the sauce richer, consider stirring in some cashew cream or try our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes as a topping alternative.

Leftovers freeze wonderfully. Simply freeze the rolls in an airtight container before baking or after cooling, and reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegan stuffed cabbage rolls pair beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve them alongside mashed potatoes or crusty bread like our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

A dollop of vegan sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or parsley adds a nice finishing touch. For a lighter option, enjoy the rolls with a side of roasted root vegetables or a bowl of our Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating.

Conclusion

This vegan stuffed cabbage rolls recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a traditional dish with a compassionate, plant-based makeover. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients that nourish your body and satisfy your taste buds.

The combination of lentils, rice, and vegetables wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and baked in a tangy tomato sauce is simply irresistible.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or entertaining guests, these cabbage rolls make a beautiful and tasty centerpiece. Plus, their versatility allows you to tweak the flavors and ingredients to match your preferences or dietary needs.

For more delicious and easy vegan recipes to complement this dish, be sure to explore our collection like Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals and Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.

Happy cooking!

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