Vegan stuffed cabbage rolls

Lenten Cabbage Rolls with Savory Filling

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

Cabbage rolls are a symbol of hospitality and culinary tradition, often prepared for special occasions, but also on ordinary days when we want to enjoy a delicious meal. Although they are often associated with meat, today we will focus on a Lenten version that is just as tasty and filling. These Lenten cabbage rolls with a filling of rice, vegetables, and spices are perfect for bringing a touch of goodness to your plate.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 large cabbage
- 1 cup of rice (approximately 200 g)
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 1 grated carrot
- 2 large onions
- 1/2 cup of raisins (approximately 75 g)
- 1 egg (optional, for added consistency)
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 bay leaves
- Oil for sautéing the onion

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the cabbage leaves: Start by blanching the cabbage leaves. Put a large pot of water on the stove and add salt. When the water begins to boil, add the whole cabbage and let it boil for about 20 minutes. This step is essential to make the cabbage leaves more pliable, thus facilitating the wrapping of the rolls. After they have softened, remove the cabbage from the water and let it drain.

2. Preparing the filling: In a pan, heat a few tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the diced red bell pepper and grated carrot. Continue to sauté the vegetables for another 5 minutes, stirring constantly. These vegetables will add a sweet flavor to the filling.

3. Adding the main ingredients: After the vegetables have sautéed, add the washed and drained rice. Mix well and let it sauté together with the vegetables for another 2 minutes. It is important to stir constantly so that the rice does not stick to the pan. Then, remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

4. Finalizing the filling: Once the mixture has cooled, add the egg (if using), tomato paste, sweet paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. This fragrant mixture will make your Lenten rolls delicious and full of flavor.

5. Wrapping the rolls: Take a cabbage leaf and place a tablespoon of the prepared filling in the center. Fold the edges of the leaf over the filling, then roll it tightly. Repeat this process until you finish filling all the cabbage leaves. If you run out of cabbage leaves, you can use the filling to make a vegetable pilaf.

6. Placing the rolls in the pot: In a clay pot or a regular pot, place a layer of chopped cabbage on the bottom. This will prevent the rolls from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Arrange the rolls in a single layer, and between them, place a few bay leaves for added flavor. You can repeat the process in layers, being careful to add chopped cabbage and bay leaves in between.

7. Cooking the rolls: Add water over the rolls so that they are covered, but not too much, as it will evaporate during cooking. Cover the pot with a lid and place it in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for about 45 minutes. The aroma will fill the entire kitchen, and your rolls will become a delicacy.

8. Serving: After they are cooked, let the rolls rest for a few minutes before serving. They are delicious alongside a Lenten sour cream or a pickled salad. You can also add some black olives for a salty and savory contrast.

Practical tips:

- Variations: You can experiment with the filling by adding mushrooms or other favorite vegetables. If you do not consume eggs, you can omit this ingredient without any problems.
- Storing the rolls: Lenten rolls keep well in the refrigerator, so you can prepare them a day in advance. The flavor becomes more intense after a day.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of Lenten rolls contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the ingredients used. The rice provides complex carbohydrates, while the vegetables bring essential vitamins and minerals, making this dish a healthy choice.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use pickled cabbage? Yes, you can use pickled cabbage, but make sure to rinse it well to reduce the salt.
- What type of rice is best? Long-grain rice is ideal for rolls as it retains its shape and does not turn to mush.
- How can I make the rolls spicier? Add some chopped hot pepper to the filling or sprinkle chili flakes on top before serving.

These Lenten rolls are not only a delicious choice but also an excellent way to bring family and friends together at the table. Cook with love and don't forget to share this recipe with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!