Description

Comforting and hearty, these Easy Cabbage Rolls are filled with a wholesome mix of rice, lentils, and warm spices, then baked in a tangy tomato sauce. A cozy, budget-friendly vegan dish perfect for any night.

Ingredients

1 large head green cabbage

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup dry brown rice

1/2 cup cooked lentils

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and pepper to taste

1 1/2 cups canned crushed tomatoes

1 tablespoon maple syrup

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1/4 cup water

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove 10–12 large cabbage leaves from the head and blanch them for 2–3 minutes until soft and flexible. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Add brown rice, lentils, tomato paste, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
In a small bowl, mix crushed tomatoes, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and water. Pour half of this sauce into the bottom of a baking dish.
Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of filling onto each cabbage leaf, fold in the sides, and roll tightly. Place rolls seam-side down in the baking dish.
Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the rolls. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the tops are slightly caramelized. Serve warm.

Notes

Use quinoa instead of rice for a lighter texture.

Add chopped walnuts or mushrooms for extra richness.

Include chili flakes or hot sauce for heat.

Blanch cabbage leaves just until pliable to prevent tearing.

Make ahead and refrigerate unbaked rolls for up to a day.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Eastern European

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
Calories: 190
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 350mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 0mg