Vegan Stuffed Cabbage with Lean Filling: A Flavorful and Healthy Recipe Guide

The Story Behind Vegan Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Stuffed cabbage rolls, or “golabki” in Polish and “sarma” in Balkan cuisine, are a comforting dish enjoyed worldwide. Traditionally made with meat and rice, these rolls are wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and simmered in a rich tomato sauce. As plant-based diets grow in popularity, stuffed cabbage has been reimagined into a vegan-friendly dish that’s equally satisfying but much healthier and more sustainable.

This vegan stuffed cabbage with lean filling swaps meat for nutritious, plant-based ingredients like lentils, quinoa, mushrooms, and spinach. This version is rich in fiber and protein, offering a lighter but hearty meal. It’s perfect for those seeking a delicious vegan dish without compromising on flavor or tradition.

Ingredients for Vegan Stuffed Cabbage:

  • 3 cups (720 ml) boiled rice
  • 15-20 cabbage leaves
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) finely chopped mushrooms
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) spinach
  • 1 small carrot, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp minced ginger
  • Oil for frying
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce

Sauce Ingredients:

  • 1.5 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sweetener (agave or maple syrup)
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 120 ml water

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Filling:
    • Heat a pan with 1 tsp of oil, and sauté the minced ginger until fragrant.
    • Add the mushrooms and cook for 1-2 minutes. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook for another 1-2 minutes until softened.
    • Transfer the sautéed mixture to a bowl, and add the chopped carrot, boiled rice, soy sauce, and salt. Mix well to create your filling.
  2. Blanch the Cabbage:
    • Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Blanch the cabbage leaves by boiling them for about 45 seconds to soften them for rolling.
  3. Assemble the Rolls:
    • Lay one cabbage leaf flat on the table. Place a portion of the filling in the center, fold in the sides of the leaf, and roll tightly.
    • Repeat this process with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
  4. Cook the Rolls:
    • Heat a frying pan with 1 tsp of oil. Place the stuffed cabbage rolls in the pan and fry them until golden brown on all sides.
  5. Make the Sauce:
    • In the same pan, combine soy sauce, sweetener, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and water. Bring the sauce to a boil and cook until it thickens slightly.
  6. Serve and Garnish:
    • Pour the sauce over the cabbage rolls. Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro for added flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Why This Recipe Works:

This vegan stuffed cabbage recipe offers a delicious twist on a traditional favorite, blending wholesome vegetables and aromatic spices to create a dish that’s both hearty and healthy. With the perfect balance of savory filling and a tangy sauce, it’s a satisfying meal for any occasion!