Delicious Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Jump to Recipe

Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that offer a wholesome, meat-free alternative to traditional dishes. This comforting recipe features tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling of rice, herbs, and vegetables, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce. As a vegetarian, enjoying hearty meals can be a challenge, but these rolls are not only filling but also packed with nutrients, making them a perfect choice for family dinners or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

There are countless reasons to love these vegetarian cabbage rolls. For one, they are a delicious way to enjoy a variety of veggies and grains. You’ll find that this meatless cabbage roll recipe is not only easy to prepare but also appeals to everyone, including those who aren’t vegetarian. Packed with flavor, these rolls are also a healthy option, as they are low-calorie and gluten-free. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of fresh herbs and spices adds a fragrant touch, enhancing the overall experience of this dish.

Ingredients for Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Gather these items:

1 large green cabbage (about 2.5 lbs)
1 cup short-grain rice, rinsed and soaked
1 medium yellow onion, grated
1 large tomato, finely chopped
½ cup chopped fresh parsley
½ cup chopped fresh mint
½ cup chopped fresh dill
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp ground allspice
Juice of 2 lemons
Salt and pepper to taste
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
2½ cups tomato sauce
2 cups water or vegetable broth

How to Make Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Step-by-Step

Step 1: Boil a large pot of salted water. Remove the core from the cabbage and separate the leaves. Blanch the leaves for 2–3 minutes until soft. Drain and cool.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mix the soaked rice, grated onion, chopped tomato, herbs, minced garlic, allspice, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Trim the thick veins of the cabbage leaves, then place 1 tablespoon of the filling in each leaf. Fold the sides in and roll tightly.
Step 4: Line the bottom of a pot with extra cabbage leaves. Arrange the rolls seam-side down in layers.
Step 5: Mix the tomato sauce with the vegetable broth, pour it over the rolls, drizzle with olive oil, and cover with a plate to weigh them down.
Step 6: Cook covered over low heat for 45–60 minutes. Let the rolls rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Keep these in mind:

These rolls are perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Feel free to adjust herbs and spices to your taste for a more personalized flavor.
Serve with a side salad for a complete meal, enhancing the nutritional benefits of vegetarian cabbage rolls.
For an extra touch, add some lemon zest to the filling for brightness.

Best Ways to Serve Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

These stuffed cabbage rolls are versatile and can be served in various ways. You can enjoy them with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added richness. Another fantastic option is to pair them with a fresh garden salad or crusty bread for a satisfying meal. Consider serving them alongside a light soup for a comforting combination, especially on chilly days.

Delicious Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe - Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

To store your rolls, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in a pot over low heat, covered with a lid, for about 20 minutes until warm. This method helps to maintain the softness of the cabbage leaves and keeps the filling moist.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

What’s the secret to perfect Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls?

The secret lies in properly blanching the cabbage leaves to make them pliable, allowing for easy rolling without tearing. Also, seasoning your filling well is crucial for delicious stuffed cabbage with veggies.

Can I make Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the rolls in advance, refrigerate them, and cook them later. This makes them a great option for meal prep, especially when you have a busy week ahead.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls?

Avoid overfilling the cabbage leaves, as this can cause them to burst during cooking. Also, ensure you cook them long enough to ensure the rice is fully cooked and the flavors meld together beautifully.

Variations of Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with different fillings! You can try adding quinoa instead of rice for a nutty flavor or incorporating black beans for a protein boost. For a Mediterranean twist, consider using feta cheese and olives. If you’re looking for a plant-based stuffed cabbage, simply omit cheese or use a vegan substitute. These variations keep the dish fresh and exciting each time you make it!

For more delicious vegetarian recipes, check out Vegetable Tortilla Roll-Ups or Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta. If you’re interested in more meal prep ideas, consider Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells or Black Forest Cheesecake.