Lenten stuffed cabbage rolls with mushrooms

Lenten stuffed cabbage rolls with mushrooms – a delicious recipe full of flavor and health

When it comes to traditional dishes, stuffed cabbage rolls hold a special place in the hearts of many. These delicious rolls, filled with various ingredients, are often associated with festive moments and family gatherings. Today, I will present to you a version of lentil stuffed cabbage rolls with mushrooms, a simple and quick recipe that combines flavors and textures in a surprising way.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 90 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Number of servings: 6-8

Necessary ingredients

- 400 g finely chopped onion
- 250 g rice
- 2 large carrots, peeled and grated
- 450 g pre-cooked and finely chopped mushrooms
- 2-3 tablespoons of bell pepper or tomato paste
- 250 ml tomato juice
- 100 ml oil
- 1 bunch of chopped parsley
- 1 bunch of chopped dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 1 large pickled cabbage

Step by step for perfect stuffed cabbage rolls

1. Preparing the filling: Start by sautéing the onion in 50 ml of oil over medium heat until it becomes golden and fragrant. The secret here is to be patient. Don’t rush the process; well-sautéed onions will add depth of flavor to the filling. Once the onion is golden, add the washed rice and 50 ml of water. Gently stir and let it simmer for a few minutes until the rice absorbs all the water. This step is essential for achieving the perfect filling.

2. Mixing the ingredients: Turn off the heat and add the tomato paste, grated carrot, vegetables, finely chopped mushrooms, salt, and pepper one by one. Mix well to homogenize the composition. Let the mixture cool slightly, then add the two tablespoons of flour, stirring gently until incorporated. The flour will help bind the filling, giving it a pleasant consistency.

3. Preparing the cabbage leaves: Carefully peel the cabbage leaves, being careful not to tear them. Cut each leaf to appropriate sizes to form the rolls. Use a teaspoon to place the filling in each cabbage leaf and wrap them carefully, pressing gently at the ends to seal well.

4. Arranging the rolls: Lay a few whole cabbage leaves on the bottom of a pot to prevent the rolls from sticking. Place the rolls side by side, and on top, finely chop a few pickled cabbage leaves and spread them evenly. This layer adds extra flavor and protects the rolls during boiling.

5. Boiling the rolls: Pour the remaining oil over the rolls, add the tomato juice, and a cup of water, just enough to cover them. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about an hour and a half. It’s important to taste one roll before turning off the heat to check if the rice and cabbage are cooked. If necessary, let it cook for another 20-30 minutes.

Chef's tip

For an even more intense flavor, you can add various spices to the filling, such as smoked paprika or thyme. Also, if you want a spicier version, add a few finely chopped hot peppers to the filling.

Serving suggestions

Lenten stuffed cabbage rolls with mushrooms are best served with warm polenta and hot peppers on the side. This combination will turn the meal into a true feast. Additionally, a plant-based sour cream or spicy tomato sauce could perfectly complement this dish.

Nutritional benefits

Stuffed cabbage rolls are not only delicious but also very nutritious. They provide a good source of carbohydrates from rice and vitamins from vegetables. Mushrooms add a boost of plant protein and fiber, making them an excellent choice for a Lenten meal. Additionally, pickled cabbage is rich in probiotics, beneficial for the gut microbiome.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use green cabbage?
Yes, you can use green cabbage! In this case, peel the cabbage leaves, then blanch them for a few minutes in a pot of hot borscht and a little salt. Let them cool before using.

How long can I keep the rolls?
The rolls can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and their flavor gets even better after a few days. You can also freeze them to keep them longer.

What other recipes can they be combined with?
These rolls pair perfectly with polenta, but also with a fresh summer salad or assorted pickles. Additionally, a glass of white wine or herbal tea will perfectly complement the meal.

A unique detail

To add a personal touch, try adding a few black or green olives to the filling of the rolls. They will provide a pleasant contrast of flavor and an interesting texture.

I hope I have inspired you to prepare these lentil stuffed cabbage rolls with mushrooms! This dish is not just a recipe but also a way to bring family and friends together, offering unforgettable moments around the table. Enjoy your meal!