A Wholesome Twist on a Classic Dish: Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage

Stuffed cabbage is a beloved dish in many cultures, traditionally prepared with a hearty meat filling. But what if you could enjoy the same comforting flavors with a plant-based twist? Our Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage recipe takes this classic meal to a whole new level by swapping out meat for a delicious mixture of mushrooms, rice, and herbs, all enveloped in tender Savoy cabbage leaves and baked in a rich tomato sauce. Whether you're a long-time vegetarian or just looking for a wholesome, nutrient-dense meal, this dish is sure to satisfy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals from fresh vegetables and brown rice.

• Hearty & Satisfying: Mushrooms add a meaty texture, while pine nuts and currants bring depth of flavor.

• Easy to Make Ahead: Prepare the stuffed cabbage rolls in advance and simply bake before serving.

• Comforting & Flavorful: A rich tomato sauce and a touch of red wine make this dish irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Filling:

• Short-grain brown rice

• Baby bella mushrooms, finely chopped

• Onion, finely chopped

• Garlic, minced

• Dried rosemary & rubbed sage

• Toasted pine nuts

• Dried currants

• Olive oil

• Salt & pepper

For the Sauce:

• Onion, chopped

• Garlic, minced

• Crushed tomatoes

• Red wine

• Olive oil

• Salt & pepper

For Assembly:

• Savoy cabbage leaves

• Extra olive oil for drizzling

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice & Filling:

   • Cook the brown rice until tender.

   • Sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic until soft and fragrant.

   • Add seasonings, pine nuts, and currants for a rich, savory flavor.

2. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves:

   • Core a head of Savoy cabbage and blanch the leaves in boiling water until softened.

   • Gently remove and dry the leaves for easy rolling.

3. Make the Tomato Sauce:

   • Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil.

   • Add crushed tomatoes, red wine, salt, and pepper, and let simmer until slightly thickened.

4. Assemble the Rolls:

   • Lay a cabbage leaf flat and add a generous scoop of the filling in the center.

   • Fold the sides over and roll tightly to secure the filling.

   • Place the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish with a layer of tomato sauce.

5. Bake to Perfection:

   • Drizzle with extra sauce and olive oil.

   • Bake uncovered at 375°F for about 45 minutes, basting occasionally.

   • Serve warm and enjoy!

Serving & Storage Tips

• Pair With: A side of crusty whole-grain bread or a fresh green salad.

• Make It Ahead: Assemble the rolls a day in advance and refrigerate. Just bake when ready to serve!

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month.

This Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage is a must-try recipe for anyone seeking a nourishing, comforting meal. It's proof that plant-based dishes can be just as hearty and satisfying as their meat-based counterparts. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, these cabbage rolls will bring warmth and flavor to your table.

So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and let us know how you enjoyed it!