Lentil stuffed cabbage rolls with soy

Delicious Vegan Cabbage Rolls with Soy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Cabbage rolls are an iconic dish, cherished by many generations, representing not just a nutritious meal, but also a culinary tradition rich in history and stories. In this recipe, we focus on a vegan version with soy, combining the taste and flavor of vegetables with the unique texture of soy. Perfect for vegetarians or those looking to reduce meat consumption, these cabbage rolls are packed with nutrients and flavor.

Necessary ingredients:
- 100 g textured soy
- 200 g rice
- 6 medium onions
- 2 carrots
- 1 piece of celery (about 100 g)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill, chopped
- 4-5 bay leaves
- 200 g tomato paste
- 3-4 tablespoons of sunflower or olive oil
- 1 large pickled cabbage (or about 1.5 kg, according to preferences)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Useful tips about ingredients:
1. Textured soy: It is an excellent source of plant protein and can be found in health food stores or supermarkets. Make sure to choose high-quality soy for better taste.
2. Pickled cabbage: If the cabbage is too salty or sour, you can soak it in cold water for 30 minutes, changing the water a few times. This will help reduce the saltiness.
3. Rice: Use long-grain rice, which will cook evenly and absorb the flavors from the filling.

Steps to prepare vegan cabbage rolls with soy:

1. Preparing the soy:
- Heat a pot of water and bring it to a boil. Add the textured soy and let it sit in hot water for 15 minutes. This will rehydrate it and prepare the texture for the filling.

2. Chopping the vegetables:
- Wash and peel the vegetables. Finely chop the onion, and grate the carrot and celery. These vegetables will add flavor and texture to the filling.

3. Sautéing the vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the grated carrot and celery and continue to sauté for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Adding the rice and soy:
- Add the washed and drained rice, then the rehydrated soy. Mix well, and after 2-3 minutes, add 1 cup of water. Let the mixture simmer on low heat until the water is fully absorbed.

5. Finalizing the filling:
- When the water has evaporated, add the tomato paste, chopped dill, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well and let the filling cool slightly.

6. Wrapping the cabbage rolls:
- Take a cabbage leaf and place a tablespoon of filling in the center. Roll the cabbage leaf around the filling, ensuring the ends are well sealed. Continue the process until all cabbage leaves and filling are used.

7. Boiling the cabbage rolls:
- In a large pot, place chopped cabbage as a base layer. Arrange the cabbage rolls in layers, interspersing with bay leaves. Fill the pot with water up to the level of the rolls, then cover with a lid and simmer on low heat for 1 hour.

8. Serving:
- After the cabbage rolls are cooked, let them rest for 10 minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed plain, with vegan sour cream, or with a spicy tomato sauce.

Serving suggestions:
For a complete culinary experience, you can serve the cabbage rolls with a fresh or pickled cabbage salad alongside a slice of homemade bread. Additionally, a dry white wine or a pale beer could perfectly complement the flavors of the dish.

Possible variations:
- Add chopped mushrooms to the filling for an intensified flavor.
- You can replace the rice with quinoa or bulgur for a healthier option.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or basil.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of vegan cabbage rolls with soy has approximately 250-300 kcal, depending on the amount of oil used. They are rich in plant proteins, fiber, and vitamins, making them an excellent choice for a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh cabbage instead of pickled cabbage?
- Yes, but you will need to blanch it first to make it more pliable.
2. How can I store leftover cabbage rolls?
- Cabbage rolls can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days or can be frozen for later use.

In conclusion, vegan cabbage rolls with soy are not only a delicious meal but also a wonderful way to bring family and friends together at the table. This simple yet flavorful recipe will surely become a favorite in your menu. Enjoy your meal!