Cabbage rolls without meat

Cabbage Rolls without Meat: The Vegetarian Delight of Winter

Cabbage rolls are a traditional dish loved by many, but today I invite you to explore a delicious and healthy version: cabbage rolls without meat, a perfect recipe for fasting days or for those who want to reduce their meat intake. This version is not only lighter but also brings a savory combination of vegetables and spices.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 pickled cabbage (or blanched sweet cabbage in vinegar water)
- 1 large onion
- 500 g mushrooms (preferably champignon, but other types can also be used)
- 3 carrots
- 250 g rice
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 3-4 peppercorns
- 2-3 bay leaves
- Fresh dill (finely chopped)
- 1-2 tablespoons of sweet paprika
- 300 ml homemade tomato juice

Preparing the ingredients:

1. Cabbage: If using pickled cabbage, separate the leaves and soak them in cold water to reduce the saltiness. Let them soak for about 30 minutes. If opting for sweet cabbage, blanching it in vinegar water will make it more pliable and easier to roll.

2. Onion: Peel and finely chop the onion. This will give a savory taste to the filling.

3. Carrots: Grate the carrots. They will add sweetness and a pleasant texture to the cabbage rolls.

4. Mushrooms: Cut the mushrooms into small cubes to integrate them perfectly into the filling.

Preparing the filling:

1. In a large skillet, add a little oil and water, then heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.

2. Add the grated carrot and chopped mushrooms. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then let the mixture sauté for about 5-7 minutes.

3. Once the vegetables have softened, add the rice. Mix everything well and add a glass of water. Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes. The rice should be slightly puffed but not fully cooked.

4. Remove the skillet from heat, add the egg, and mix everything until homogeneous. Make sure the egg is well incorporated into the filling.

Forming and cooking the cabbage rolls:

1. On each cabbage leaf, place a tablespoon of the rice and vegetable filling. Roll the leaf starting from one corner and tuck in the ends to seal the filling.

2. Place the cabbage rolls in a large pot, one next to the other, taking care not to unravel during cooking.

3. Sprinkle sweet paprika and fresh dill over the cabbage rolls. Then add enough water to completely cover the rolls.

4. Add the peppercorns and bay leaves, then place the pot over medium heat. Once the water starts to boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer on low for about 1 hour.

5. After they have cooked, add the homemade tomato juice and let it simmer for another 15 minutes. This will give a rich flavor and a pleasant color to the cabbage rolls.

Useful tips:

- Variety of ingredients: You can add other vegetables to the filling, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to diversify the taste. You can also experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano.

- Serving: Cabbage rolls can be served warm, alongside sour cream (for those not on a diet) or with hot peppers for an extra kick. A slice of fresh bread will perfectly complement the meal.

- Advance preparation: Cabbage rolls can be cooked ahead of time and frozen. You can easily reheat them, preserving their delicious flavor.

Nutritional benefits:

Cabbage rolls without meat provide an excellent source of fiber from vegetables and rice, making for a filling and nutritious meal. Mushrooms are rich in plant proteins and vitamins, while carrots provide an important supply of beta-carotene. This recipe is suitable for vegans and vegetarians, being a healthy and tasty option.

Frequently asked questions:

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

2. Can the cabbage rolls be made without egg?
Yes, the egg can be omitted, and the filling will remain delicious. If desired, you can add a little cornstarch to bind the ingredients.

3. How can I adjust the salt level?
It is important to taste the filling before using it, as pickled cabbage may already be salty. Add salt gradually.

4. Is it possible to make them without pickled cabbage?
Of course! Cabbage rolls can be made with sweet cabbage, but it will need to be blanched in vinegar water to become pliable.

A personal note:

This meatless cabbage roll recipe reminds me of cozy evenings spent with family when we gathered around the table to enjoy lovingly prepared dishes. I encourage you to share this experience with your loved ones, turning every meal into a special moment.

Try this simple and delicious meatless cabbage roll recipe, and with each bite, you will discover how flavorful a vegetarian meal can be! Enjoy your meal!