Lenten cabbage rolls

Lenten stuffed cabbage rolls with soy and mushrooms - A delicious recipe for fasting days

When it comes to traditional dishes, stuffed cabbage rolls hold a special place, loved by everyone. Today, I propose we prepare together a variant of fasting cabbage rolls, easy to make but just as tasty. This recipe is perfect for Fridays or any day you want to enjoy a healthy and filling meal without animal-derived ingredients.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 90 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:
- 100 g soy granules
- 3-4 medium onions
- 3-4 carrots
- 500 g mushrooms (fresh or canned)
- 100 g rice
- Leaves from about 30 cabbage rolls (sour cabbage)
- Salt, pepper, nutmeg (to taste)
- Fresh dill and parsley (to taste)
- 50 g oil

The story behind the recipe:
Stuffed cabbage rolls are a dish that has crossed generations, symbolizing hospitality and family warmth. In every culture, there is a slightly different recipe for stuffed cabbage rolls, but the concept of wrapping the filling in leaves remains constant. In this version, I chose to use soy granules and mushrooms to provide a delicious and nutritious alternative. This not only maintains tradition but also adds vitamins and fiber.

Preparation technique:
1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by cleaning the vegetables. Finely chop the onion and prepare the carrots by grating them. If using fresh mushrooms, clean and chop them finely. If using canned mushrooms, drain them well.

2. Cooking the filling:
In a deep skillet, add a few tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes transparent and slightly soft, about 5 minutes. Then, add the grated carrots and continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes.

3. Adding the mushrooms and soy:
Add the chopped mushrooms and the soy granules, which you have previously boiled for 15 minutes in boiling water and then drained well. This is when the aroma starts to become enticing. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for a subtle taste. After the mushrooms have softened, add the rice and let it sauté for a few more minutes, stirring constantly.

4. Finalizing the mixture:
Remove the skillet from the heat and add the finely chopped dill and parsley. These fresh herbs will add extra freshness to the filling. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

5. Wrapping the cabbage rolls:
On a cutting board or plate, take a leaf of sour cabbage and place a spoonful of the filling mixture in the center of the leaf. Fold the edges of the cabbage leaf over the filling and roll tightly. Repeat the process until the filling is finished.

6. Boiling the cabbage rolls:
In a large pot, add a splash of oil to the bottom. Sprinkle a thin layer of chopped cabbage to prevent the rolls from sticking. Arrange the cabbage rolls in layers, covering each layer with a little cabbage. Fill the pot with water so that it covers the rolls, and if desired, add a few tablespoons of broth for a more intense flavor. Put the lid on and simmer on low heat for about an hour.

Useful tips:
- For an extra flavor, add a few peppercorns and bay leaves to the water before boiling the cabbage rolls.
- Variations: You can replace the rice with quinoa or bulgur for a healthier option. You can also experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, to add a distinct flavor.
- Serving: The cabbage rolls are served hot, alongside a tomato sauce or soy yogurt. A fresh summer salad will perfectly complement this dish.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh cabbage instead of sour cabbage?
Yes, but you will need to blanch it in hot water to soften it before using.

2. How can I keep the cabbage rolls for a longer time?
The cabbage rolls can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or can be frozen for later consumption.

3. What is the nutritional value of these cabbage rolls?
These cabbage rolls are rich in protein due to the soy and contain fiber from the vegetables and rice, having a low fat content. Each serving provides approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Now that you have gone through all the steps, you are ready to enjoy delicious and healthy fasting cabbage rolls. I wish you good appetite and a satisfying experience in the kitchen!