Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Lentils and Quinoa

These Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a delicious and hearty meal, featuring a healthy and flavorful filling of lentils, quinoa, and aromatic spices. The cabbage leaves are gently softened, filled with a savory mixture, and then baked to perfection with a savory broth. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or to impress guests with a wholesome, plant-based meal.

Preparation, Cook, and Total Times

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings

Cuisine This recipe draws on Eastern European and Mediterranean influences, where stuffed cabbage rolls (known as sarma or dolma) are a traditional dish. This variation uses lentils and quinoa for a plant-based twist, making it a nutritious, satisfying meal.

Full List of Ingredients

• For the Cabbage Rolls:

  • 1 medium cabbage
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup lentils
  • 1/2 cup quinoa
  • Vegetable oil, for cooking
  • 1-1.5 cups broth (vegetable or chicken)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons flour

• For the Assembly:

  • Wet baking paper
  • Aluminum foil
  • Sour cream, for serving

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Cabbage:

   • Begin by separating the cabbage into individual leaves. Carefully peel off the outer layers of the cabbage, trying to preserve the leaves intact.
   • Place the cabbage leaves in a pan and pour boiling water over them. Let them sit for a few minutes until the leaves are soft enough to roll. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Filling:

   • In a large skillet, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
   • Rinse the lentils and quinoa with water to remove any impurities.
   • Stir the lentils and quinoa into the skillet and fry for about 5 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors of the onion and garlic.

3. Add the Broth and Seasonings:

   • Add 1 to 1.5 cups of broth to the mixture, then season with salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and ground cumin. Stir to combine.
   • Cover and cook over medium heat for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils and quinoa are cooked through and the liquid has been absorbed.
   • Chop the fresh parsley and stir it into the mixture. Set the filling aside to cool slightly.

4. Prepare the Cabbage Rolls:

   • Trim the thick stems from the cabbage leaves so that they can be rolled easily.
   • Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the lentil and quinoa filling in the center of each cabbage leaf. Roll the leaf tightly, folding in the sides as you go to form a neat roll.
   • Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.

5. Assemble the Cabbage Rolls:

   • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • Place the rolled cabbage in a baking dish, seam side down.
   • Cover the rolls with wet baking paper, then cover the dish with foil to keep the rolls moist during baking.

6. Bake the Cabbage Rolls:

   • Bake the cabbage rolls in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is heated through.
   • Remove the foil and baking paper before serving.

7. Serve:

   • Once baked, serve the cabbage rolls hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess and flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Protein: 8 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fat: 5 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Cholesterol: 10 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe Stuffed cabbage rolls are a beloved dish in many parts of the world, including Eastern Europe and the Middle East. Traditionally filled with meat and rice, this variation uses lentils and quinoa, making it a lighter and plant-based option. It’s a dish often served for special occasions, but it’s also great for everyday meals because it’s easy to make in large quantities.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lentils, quinoa, and cabbage, this dish is full of protein, fiber, and vitamins.
• Hearty and Filling: Despite being plant-based, the lentils and quinoa provide plenty of substance, making this dish perfect for a filling meal.
• Flavored with Aromatic Spices: The sweet paprika and cumin add a warm, earthy flavor to the filling that’s incredibly satisfying.

Health Benefits

• High in Fiber: Lentils and quinoa are both rich in fiber, which supports digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• Rich in Protein: Both lentils and quinoa are excellent plant-based sources of protein, making this dish a great option for vegetarians and vegans.
• Packed with Nutrients: The cabbage provides vitamin C, while parsley adds vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side Salad: Serve with a refreshing green salad for a complete, balanced meal.
• With Garlic Bread: Complement the cabbage rolls with some crispy garlic bread for an extra indulgent side.
• With a Tomato Sauce: For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle the rolls with a simple tomato sauce or a rich marinara sauce before baking.

Cooking Tips

• Avoid Overstuffing: Don’t overstuff the cabbage rolls, as this can make them harder to roll and result in uneven cooking.
• Check for Tenderness: Make sure the cabbage leaves are soft enough before rolling them. If they’re too stiff, they may tear when you try to roll them.
• Adjust the Spices: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. If you like more heat, add chili flakes or fresh chopped chili peppers to the filling.

Variations to Try

• Meat Version: Add cooked ground beef or turkey to the filling for a heartier, more traditional version of stuffed cabbage rolls.
• Cheese Stuffing: For a cheesy twist, add ricotta or feta cheese to the filling.
• Vegan Option: Keep the dish vegan by using plant-based milk and omitting the sour cream topping.

Conclusion These Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Lentils and Quinoa are a flavorful, hearty, and healthy dish that everyone will enjoy. The combination of tender cabbage, savory filling, and aromatic spices makes it a comforting meal that can easily be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a plant-based dish or just a delicious, satisfying meal, these stuffed cabbage rolls will surely hit the spot.

10 Comprehensive FAQ Section

1. Can I make these cabbage rolls ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the cabbage rolls in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze stuffed cabbage rolls? Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and they’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

3. Can I use a different type of cabbage? While green cabbage is the most common variety for stuffing, you can also use napa cabbage or savoy cabbage, depending on what you have available.

4. Can I add meat to the filling? Yes, you can add ground meat such as beef, turkey, or pork to the filling for a more traditional version of this dish.

5. What can I serve with stuffed cabbage rolls? These rolls are great with a side salad, garlic bread, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

6. How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

7. Can I use canned lentils or quinoa? Yes, you can use canned lentils or pre-cooked quinoa for convenience, but be sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the filling.

8. Can I make these cabbage rolls gluten-free? Yes, simply substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

9. What other spices can I add to the filling? Feel free to experiment with other spices like cumin, coriander, or cinnamon to add extra depth of flavor.

10. Can I make these cabbage rolls spicier? Yes, you can add chili flakes, hot sauce, or fresh chopped chilies to the filling if you prefer a spicy kick.