Cabbage rolls for fasting

Post cabbage rolls: a traditional recipe full of flavor

Who doesn't love cabbage rolls? This classic dish, wrapped in pickled cabbage leaves, is a symbol of hospitality and culinary tradition. Vegan cabbage rolls are an excellent choice, not only for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet but also for anyone looking for a delicious and hearty meal. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step to achieve the most flavorful cabbage rolls, even during fasting.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 large cup of rice (about 200 g)
- 1 cup of water (about 250 ml)
- 2 medium pickled cabbages
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Before you start cooking, here are some practical tips about the ingredients:

- Onion: Choose fresh onion, as it will add a pleasant taste to the rolls. White or yellow onion is the most suitable for this recipe.
- Rice: Use medium or long grain rice. It is important to wash it well before use to remove excess starch, which will help the rice not to stick together.
- Pickled cabbage: Make sure the cabbage is well desalted. An effective method is to soak it overnight in a bowl of cold water to reduce the salt. Choose whole cabbage leaves, which are easier to roll.

Step by step for perfect cabbage rolls:

1. Preparing the filling: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. This step is essential to release the flavors of the onion, which will blend perfectly with the other ingredients.

2. Add the carrot: Grate the carrot and add it to the onion. Mix well and let it sauté for another 2-3 minutes. The carrot will not only add a sweet note but will also enrich the color of the filling.

3. The rice: Wash the rice in cold water until the water runs clear, then let it soak for 10-15 minutes. After that, drain it and add it to the skillet, mixing well with the onion and carrot. Cover with 1 cup of water and let it boil for 5 minutes. This step helps the rice swell, preparing it for rolling.

4. Cooling the mixture: Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool. The rice will continue to swell and absorb the flavors from the vegetables.

5. Preparing the cabbage: Wash the pickled cabbages well and drain them. Carefully remove the cabbage leaves, keeping them intact so you can roll the cabbage rolls easily.

6. Forming the rolls: Take one cabbage leaf and place a spoonful of the rice and vegetable mixture in the center. Roll the cabbage leaf, folding the edges inward to seal the filling. Repeat this process until you have used all the mixture.

7. Cooking the rolls: In a large pot, place a layer of chopped cabbage on the bottom. Stand the cabbage rolls upright, leaving a space in the middle where you will add the 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Cover the rolls with water, allowing the liquid to exceed the rolls by about 2 fingers. This will ensure even cooking.

8. Boiling: Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let it simmer for 45-60 minutes. It is important to check the water level periodically and add hot water if necessary.

9. Serving: The cabbage rolls are served hot, alongside steaming polenta and hot peppers. This combination will add a spicy note and enhance the deliciousness of the dish.

Nutritional benefits:
Vegan cabbage rolls are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The rice provides complex carbohydrates, which offer energy, while pickled cabbage is an excellent source of probiotics, beneficial for digestive health.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use brown rice? Yes, but it will require a longer cooking time, so make sure the rice is well cooked before forming the rolls.

2. How can I store the rolls? You can store the rolls in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. They can also be frozen for later use.

3. What other vegetables can I add to the filling? You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or grated zucchini to diversify the flavor.

Possible variations:
To give a unique touch to the rolls, you can add spices like thyme, dill, or cumin to the filling. Also, try using grape leaves for a different but equally delicious dish.

In conclusion, vegan cabbage rolls are not only a tasty dish but also a true celebration of culinary tradition. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for any meal. Don't forget to enjoy every moment of cooking and savor the final result of your hard work! Enjoy your meal!