Vegetarian Cabbage Rolls with Mushrooms and Herbs

These vegetarian cabbage rolls are a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender cabbage leaves with a savory filling of mushrooms, rice, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a comforting meal, these rolls can be served with a rich tomato sauce or enjoyed on their own. Here’s how to make them step by step.

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 1 large green cabbage
• 1 cup long-grain rice (white or brown)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped (button or cremini)
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ cup fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup vegetable broth (or water)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage using a sharp knife.
2. Once the water is boiling, add the whole cabbage. Boil for about 5–7 minutes until the outer leaves are tender.
3. Remove the cabbage from the pot and let it cool slightly. Peel off the softened leaves and set them aside. You may need to return the cabbage to boiling water to soften additional leaves.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

1. While the cabbage is cooling, cook the rice according to package instructions. Set aside once cooked.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until translucent (about 3–4 minutes).
3. Add the chopped mushrooms, grated carrot, and diced bell pepper; cook for another 5 minutes until softened.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice with the sautéed vegetables, parsley, dill, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.

Step 4: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

1. Take a cabbage leaf and place about 2 tablespoons of filling at the base of the leaf.
2. Fold in the sides and roll it up tightly from the base to form a neat parcel.
3. Repeat this process until all filling is used up.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, mix together tomato sauce, vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour a thin layer of sauce into the bottom of a large baking dish.

Step 6: Bake the Cabbage Rolls

1. Place each rolled cabbage seam-side down in the baking dish on top of the sauce.
2. Once all rolls are in place, pour any remaining sauce over them.
3. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes.

Step 7: Serve

1. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Success

• Cabbage Preparation: If you prefer an easier method, freeze your cabbage head overnight; thawing it will make peeling off leaves much simpler without boiling.
• Filling Variations: Feel free to customize your filling by adding lentils or beans for extra protein or incorporating different vegetables based on what you have on hand.
• Make Ahead: These cabbage rolls can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge until ready to bake.

These vegetarian cabbage rolls with mushrooms and herbs are not only delicious but also versatile and healthy! This recipe is perfect for those looking for a hearty meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Enjoy these rolls as part of your family dinner or meal prep for an easy lunch option throughout the week!