Baked Vegan Cabbage Rolls Recipe

If you have been searching for a heartwarming, wholesome dinner that brings the comforting flavors of home cooking with a fresh, healthy twist, look no further than this Baked Vegan Cabbage Rolls Recipe. Each tender cabbage leaf cradles a savory filling of lentils, brown rice, and fragrant spices, all smothered in a luscious tomato sauce. It’s a deliciously satisfying dish that’s perfect for cozy nights and is sure to become a new favorite for vegans and non-vegans alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Baked Vegan Cabbage Rolls Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—from the tender cabbage leaves providing the perfect wrap, to the protein-packed lentils and wholesome brown rice filling, and the rich tomato sauce that ties everything together with a bright, savory finish.

• 1 large head green cabbage: The sturdy leaves are ideal for rolling and cook up soft but hold their shape wonderfully.
• 1 cup cooked brown rice: Adds a hearty, chewy texture that complements the lentils perfectly.
• 1 cup cooked green or brown lentils: Provides protein and a satisfying earthiness to the filling.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Infuses the filling and sauce with natural sweetness and depth.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers aromatic warmth to both filling and sauce.
• 1 medium carrot, grated: Brightens the filling with a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that enriches the filling’s taste.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing to develop mellow flavors.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of green.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Herbal notes that complement the savory profile.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Imparts a subtle smoky depth and warmth.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick without overpowering.
• 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes: Forms the rich, tangy base of the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing onions and garlic in the sauce.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Sweetness and texture in the tomato sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic complexity to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic herb that brightens the tomato sauce.
• 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To perfect seasoning.

How to Make Baked Vegan Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows the cabbage rolls to bake perfectly, letting the flavors meld and the sauce bubble up beautifully without drying out.

Step 2: Prepare Cabbage Leaves

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully peel off 8 to 10 whole leaves from the cabbage head, selecting the largest and most intact ones. Blanch these leaves for 2 to 3 minutes until they become pliable but still hold their shape—this makes rolling a breeze without tearing.

Step 3: Cook the Filling Base

In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the grated carrot, tomato paste, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 4: Combine Filling

Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a large mixing bowl. Add the cooked brown rice, lentils, and fresh parsley. Mix everything thoroughly so each bite offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary—it should be savory, herby, and a little smoky.

Step 5: Prepare Tomato Sauce

In a saucepan, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until translucent and fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper, then simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes. This slow cooking thickens the sauce slightly and tones down acidity, resulting in a rich, well-rounded flavor.

Step 6: Assemble Baking Dish

Spread half a cup of the tomato sauce onto the bottom of your baking dish. This prevents sticking and adds flavor right from the base.

Step 7: Fill and Roll Cabbage

Lay a cabbage leaf flat on your surface and trim the thick stem if it’s bulky—it helps the leaf wrap more neatly. Place 2 to 3 tablespoons of filling at the base of the leaf. Fold in the sides and roll it up tightly, sealing the filling inside. Position each roll seam-side down in the baking dish. Continue until all the filling and leaves have been used.

Step 8: Add Sauce and Cover

Pour the remaining tomato sauce evenly over the cabbage rolls, ensuring each roll gets a nice coating. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to retain moisture and allow even cooking.

Step 9: Bake Covered

Bake covered in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This gentle cooking lets the flavors marry and the cabbage soften thoroughly without drying out.

Step 10: Final Bake for Gorgeous Finish

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the tomato sauce is bubbly and the edges of the rolls turn a lovely golden color. This final step adds a touch of caramelization and depth to the dish.

Step 11: Rest and Serve

Let your Baked Vegan Cabbage Rolls Recipe cool slightly before serving. This rest time allows the filling to set, making each roll easier to pick up without falling apart. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds freshness and a pop of color that’s as inviting as the taste.

How to Serve Baked Vegan Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or dill are perfect for garnishing these cabbage rolls, bringing a burst of green and a fresh flavor note that complements the warm, savory filling. You can also add a drizzle of vegan sour cream or cashew cream for added creaminess and a pleasant contrast.

Side Dishes

Serve these Baked Vegan Cabbage Rolls Recipe alongside rustic crusty bread or a simple mashed potato to soak up the delicious tomato sauce. For a green side, a crisp salad with a light vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables helps balance the heartiness of the rolls.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try stacking the rolls in a shallow pie dish to create a “cabbage roll pie.” Alternatively, plate each roll over a swirl of vegan yogurt sauce with a sprinkle of smoked paprika to elevate the presentation. These little touches make serving this dish a delightful experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cabbage rolls keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making them an excellent make-ahead meal. Just cover them well to prevent drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked rolled cabbage or fully baked rolls. For uncooked, assemble and freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. For cooked, freeze in a freezer-safe container. They will keep their texture and flavor for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C), covered with foil for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven method better preserves the texture and flavor of the sauce and rolls.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cabbage for this recipe?

Green cabbage is ideal due to its large, sturdy leaves. However, savoy cabbage works well too because of its flexible leaves. Avoid red cabbage as its leaves can be tougher and may alter the flavor profile.

Is it necessary to cook the rice and lentils beforehand?

Yes, cooking the rice and lentils in advance is important for the filling’s texture. Using uncooked grains would leave the filling gritty and dry after baking.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! This Baked Vegan Cabbage Rolls Recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided you use certified gluten-free tomato paste and spices if needed.

How can I add more protein to the filling?

If you want to boost protein, consider adding cooked quinoa or finely chopped walnuts for extra texture and nutrition without compromising flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! These cabbage rolls hold up well in the fridge and freezer, making them perfect for preparing in advance and enjoying throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Baked Vegan Cabbage Rolls Recipe enough to anyone craving a delicious, comforting, and wholesome meal that’s plant-based and packed with flavor. It’s a dish that brings warmth to the table and shows just how satisfying vegan cooking can be. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a staple in your recipe collection!

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