Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a comforting classic, and this vegetarian version proves that you don’t need meat to make them hearty and satisfying. Tender cabbage leaves are filled with a flavorful mix of grains, vegetables, and herbs, then baked in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or special occasions, these rolls are healthy, filling, and packed with flavor. For a lighter, handheld option, try Tortilla Roll-Ups—they’re quick to assemble and pair perfectly alongside the cabbage rolls for a balanced meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These vegetarian cabbage rolls are a delicious twist on a traditional favorite. They’re full of wholesome ingredients like rice, quinoa, lentils, or mushrooms, providing both protein and texture. The tomato sauce adds a tangy, savory depth that ties everything together. Even meat-lovers will find these rolls hearty and satisfying, making them a versatile dish everyone will enjoy.

Nutritional Information

Vegetarian stuffed cabbage rolls are not only flavorful but also nutritious. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber from vegetables and whole grains, this dish is a wholesome, guilt-free comfort food. Each serving typically contains:

• Calories: ~250–300
• Protein: 8–12g (depending on filling ingredients)
• Fat: 5–8g
• Carbohydrates: 40–45g
• Fiber: 6–8g

Time Breakdown

Even with rolling and baking, these cabbage rolls come together in about an hour, making them practical for a weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend meal.

• Prep Time: 20–25 minutes
• Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
• Total Time: ~60–65 minutes

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these cabbage rolls comes from simple, fresh ingredients. Cabbage leaves, grains, legumes, vegetables, and herbs combine to create a filling that’s both hearty and flavorful. The tomato sauce brings everything together with a tangy, savory note that elevates this dish to a comforting classic.

For the Rolls:

• 1 large head of cabbage
• 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
• 1 cup cooked lentils or finely chopped mushrooms
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 carrot, grated
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp dried thyme or oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 tsp sugar or maple syrup (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Condensed Grocery Checklist

Shopping for this recipe is straightforward. With a short list of staple ingredients and fresh produce, you can gather everything in one trip. This makes the recipe approachable, even for beginner cooks or busy weeknights. For another quick, flavorful vegetarian option, try Air Fryer Falafel—crispy, golden, and perfect for a healthy meal or snack.

• Cabbage
• Rice or quinoa
• Lentils or mushrooms
• Onion, garlic, carrot
• Fresh parsley
• Olive oil, tomato sauce
• Dried thyme or oregano
• Optional: smoked paprika, sugar

How to Make – Step by Step

The process is simple once you break it down into steps. From blanching cabbage leaves to preparing the filling and baking in tomato sauce, each stage is easy to follow. Clear steps ensure perfectly cooked rolls with balanced flavors in every bite.

1. Prepare the cabbage:
   • Core the cabbage and blanch leaves in boiling water for 2–3 minutes until pliable. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the filling:
   • In a large bowl, combine cooked rice or quinoa, lentils or mushrooms, onion, garlic, carrot, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the rolls:
   • Place a portion of the filling on each cabbage leaf, fold in the sides, and roll tightly.
4. Prepare the sauce:
   • Heat olive oil in a pan, add tomato sauce, smoked paprika, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for a few minutes to combine flavors.
5. Bake the rolls:
   • Place rolls seam-side down in a baking dish, pour sauce over them, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes.
6. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy warm with extra sauce.

Ingredient Swaps & Variations

This recipe is highly versatile. You can switch grains, legumes, or vegetables according to taste or availability. These variations allow you to personalize the dish without losing the classic comfort and flavor that makes cabbage rolls so special.

• Use barley, farro, or couscous instead of rice or quinoa for a different grain texture.
• Add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the filling for extra vegetables.
• Swap lentils for black beans or chickpeas for a protein-packed alternative.
• Add a touch of vegan cheese or nutritional yeast to the filling for a richer flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Vegetarian stuffed cabbage rolls are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve them with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad for a complete meal. They’re also perfect for meal prep or for sharing at potlucks, making them both practical and delicious. For an extra savory snack or side, try Cauliflower Bites—crispy, flavorful, and a perfect complement to the hearty cabbage rolls.

• Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal.
• Pair with a fresh green salad or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• Great for meal prep: store leftovers in the fridge or freeze for later.
• Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt or sour cream for extra creaminess.

Storing Tips

Proper storage keeps your cabbage rolls moist and flavorful. They can be refrigerated for several days or frozen for later use. Knowing how to store and reheat ensures every bite remains tender, flavorful, and satisfying.

• Store cooked cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze unbaked rolls with sauce for up to 2 months; bake directly from frozen with extended cooking time.
• Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or extra sauce to keep them moist.

Chef’s Special Tips

Small techniques make a big difference. Blanching cabbage leaves just enough to make them pliable, rolling tightly without overfilling, and seasoning the tomato sauce carefully all help create perfect rolls. These chef tips elevate the dish from good to exceptional.

• Blanch cabbage leaves just enough to make them pliable; overcooking makes them tear easily.
• Make extra tomato sauce—it keeps the rolls moist and doubles as a dipping sauce.
• Roll tightly but don’t overfill leaves; this ensures they cook evenly.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the sauce for subtle depth and warmth.

Conclusion

The Best Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a wholesome, hearty, and flavorful dish you’ll want to make again and again. With tender cabbage leaves, a savory filling, and a rich tomato sauce, they’re perfect for family dinners, entertaining, or meal prep. Even meat-lovers will be impressed by the depth of flavor, making these rolls a true vegetarian crowd-pleaser

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