Vegan stuffed cabbage rolls with soy and polenta

Vegan Cabbage Rolls with Soy and Polenta – A Recipe Full of Flavor and Tradition

Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooking time: 90 minutes Total time: 2 hours Number of servings: 4-6

Vegan cabbage rolls are a dish that brings to the forefront culinary traditions and authentic flavors. This soy recipe is a delicious and healthy alternative, perfect for fasting days or for those who want to reduce meat consumption. With a fragrant combination of vegetables and spices, these rolls are sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

- 100 g soy granules
- 3 medium onions
- 1 carrot
- 1/2 celery root
- 200 g rice
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons cornmeal
- 4 tablespoons oil
- Pickled cabbage (enough to wrap the rolls)
- 1 jar of mushrooms (420 g)
- Fresh dill
- 1 bay leaf

Preparation of ingredients:

1. Preparing the cabbage leaves: If using pickled cabbage, ensure the leaves are large enough to wrap the filling. You can rinse them lightly under cold water to reduce salt if necessary. Let them drain well.

2. Rehydrating the soy: Put water in a pot and add a little salt. When the water boils, add the soy granules and let them boil for 10-15 minutes or until soft. After rehydrating, drain and let cool.

3. Preparing the vegetables: Peel the onions, carrot, and celery. Chop the onion finely, and grate the carrot and celery. These vegetables will add extra flavor and texture to the dish.

4. Sautéing the vegetables: In a pan, heat the 4 tablespoons of oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. Then, add the grated carrot and celery, continuing to sauté for another 5-7 minutes.

5. Adding the soy and rice: Add the drained and chopped mushrooms, the rehydrated soy, and the previously soaked rice. Let the mixture cook on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice swells slightly.

6. Seasoning the mixture: Finally, add the tomato paste, chopped dill, thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. The mixture should be homogeneous and well-seasoned.

Forming the rolls:

7. Filling the cabbage leaves: Take a cabbage leaf and place a tablespoon of the soy and vegetable mixture at the base of the leaf. Fold the side edges inward and roll the leaf from the base to the top, forming a roll. Continue until all the mixture is used.

8. Boiling the rolls: In a large pot, place some chopped cabbage leaves and the bay leaf at the bottom to prevent the rolls from sticking. Arrange the rolls in layers, covering them with water (or a mixture of water and tomato juice) until completely covered. Simmer on low heat for 1-1.5 hours, until the cabbage leaves become tender.

Serving:

Vegan cabbage rolls with soy are served hot, alongside a portion of soft polenta and a sprinkle of fresh dill on top. The polenta adds a creamy texture that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the rolls. You can opt for a spicy tomato sauce or a cabbage salad for a contrast of textures.

Tips and variations:

- If you want a more intense flavor, add some chopped olives or hot peppers to the mixture.
- You can experiment with other types of mushrooms or vegetables, such as zucchini or red peppers, to customize the recipe.
- For a spicier version, add chili flakes to the filling mixture.

Nutritional benefits:

This vegan cabbage roll recipe is rich in plant protein due to the soy, while the rice provides complex carbohydrates that ensure energy. Additionally, the vegetables are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, contributing to a balanced and healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use textured soy instead of soy granules? Yes, textured soy has a similar texture and can be used, but it will require longer hydration.

- How can I store the rolls? The rolls can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. They are just as delicious when reheated!

- What drinks pair best with the rolls? A dry white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade are excellent choices to complement the meal.

Vegan cabbage rolls with soy are a fantastic choice for any meal, bringing a touch of tradition and innovation to our tables. Not only are they tasty, but they are also a perfect example of how to transform traditional dishes into a healthy and delicious variant. Enjoy your meal!