Ingredients:

For the cabbage rolls:

  • 1 large cabbage head
  • 1 cup of cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 cup of cooked lentils or your choice of protein (e.g., mushrooms, tofu, or tempeh)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 1/2 cup of crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the tomato sauce:

  • 2 cups of crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup of vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Cabbage:
    • Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core of the cabbage and place the whole head in the boiling water. Boil for 3-5 minutes until the outer leaves are soft and pliable. Remove the leaves as they become tender, and set them aside to cool.
  2. Prepare the Filling:
    • In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté for a few minutes until they become translucent.
    • Add the grated carrot and continue to cook for 2-3 minutes.
    • Stir in the cooked rice, cooked lentils (or your choice of protein), crushed tomatoes, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until everything is well combined. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  3. Assemble the Cabbage Rolls:
    • Take a cabbage leaf and place a spoonful of the filling mixture at the base (the rib end) of the leaf. Fold the sides over the filling and then roll it up tightly, similar to a burrito. Place the cabbage roll seam side down in a large baking dish. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
  4. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
    • In a separate bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  5. Bake:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the cabbage rolls in the baking dish.
    • Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the cabbage rolls are tender.
  6. Serve:
    • Carefully remove the cabbage rolls from the oven, and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
    • Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your vegan stuffed cabbage rolls! They’re flavorful, nutritious, and perfect for a satisfying plant-based meal.