Stuffed cabbage rolls with vegetables

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Vegetables: A Delicious Recipe for a Comforting Meal

In every culture, stuffed cabbage rolls have a fascinating story, often symbolizing unity and family traditions. These small, aromatic parcels filled with rice and vegetables are perfect for a festive meal or simply for a family dinner. This vegetable stuffed cabbage roll recipe is not only tasty but also healthy, given the rich combination of vegetables and spices. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total: 90 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

- 1 cup of rice (approximately 250 g)
- 3 onions (you can use both white and red onion for a more complex flavor)
- 3 carrots
- 1 medium celery root (approximately 150 g)
- 2 red bell peppers
- 1 parsnip
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Celery leaves
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Pepper, to taste
- Spices (curry, paprika, oregano, thyme)
- 2 teaspoons of vegetable seasoning (or salt, to taste)
- Bay leaves
- 1/2 cup of tomato paste
- Sauerkraut (or vine leaves)
- Oil (for frying)
- 2 cloves of garlic

Preparing the Cabbage Rolls

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion. Use a sharp knife to easily obtain uniform cubes. Grate the carrots on a large grater, and chop the celery and parsnip into small cubes for even cooking.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, add a few tablespoons of oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Add the diced peppers and sauté them together with the onion for a few minutes. Then, add the carrots, celery, and parsnip. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step is essential for developing the flavors!

3. Preparing the rice: In another skillet, sauté the rice for a few minutes, being careful not to burn it. Add 1 teaspoon of curry, paprika, a bit of greenery, and 2 tablespoons of broth. Mix well, then add the sautéed vegetable mixture to the skillet. Cover with water and let it boil until the rice absorbs the liquid (about 10 minutes).

4. Filling the cabbage rolls: Once the rice and vegetable mixture has cooled slightly, it's time to form the rolls. Take a cabbage leaf and place a tablespoon of the rice mixture in the center. Fold the edges to enclose the filling and form parcels. Continue until all the cabbage leaves are used.

5. Assembling in the pot: Place a few chopped cabbage leaves at the bottom of a large pot. Then, place the stuffed cabbage rolls, making sure to lay them in a single layer. Add spices between them: oregano, pepper, thyme, and a few bay leaves. Dissolve the tomato paste in boiling water, add a little vegetable seasoning or salt, and pour it over the cabbage rolls.

6. Baking: Cover the pot with a lid and place it in a preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius. Let the cabbage rolls bake for about an hour. The aroma will fill the entire house and make you eagerly await serving them!

Serving Suggestions

Stuffed cabbage rolls are best served warm, alongside fresh sour cream and a slice of homemade bread. If you want to add a touch of freshness, you can garnish the plate with a few leaves of fresh parsley or dill. A summer salad with tomatoes and cucumbers can perfectly complement this meal!

Tips and Variations

- If you want a spicier version, you can add a hot pepper to the filling mixture.
- Instead of sauerkraut, you can use vine leaves, and the rolls will take on a unique flavor.
- If you prefer a vegan version, you can omit the tomato paste and substitute it with soy sauce for an umami taste.

Nutritional Benefits

Stuffed cabbage rolls with vegetables are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Whole grain rice is full of complex carbohydrates that provide long-lasting energy. The vegetables used add antioxidants and essential nutrients, making this dish a healthy choice for any meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time. Make sure to boil it before mixing it with the vegetables.

How can I store the cabbage rolls?
The cabbage rolls can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze them and reheat them when desired.

Conclusion

Stuffed cabbage rolls with vegetables are a recipe that brings together flavors and culinary traditions. This healthy and flavorful version is perfect for any occasion. Try making them and enjoy the moments spent with your loved ones, savoring every bite. Bon appétit!