Savory Brown Rice & Lentil Cabbage Rolls – A Nourishing Plant-Based Classic

These brown rice and lentil stuffed cabbage rolls offer a deliciously wholesome twist on a classic dish. The combination of protein-rich lentils, fiber-packed brown rice, and tender cabbage leaves creates a nutritious and satisfying meal, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce.

• Total Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls:

1. 1 large head of cabbage
2. 1 cup cooked brown rice
3. 1 cup cooked green or brown lentils
4. 1 small onion, finely chopped
5. 2 cloves garlic, minced
6. 1 small carrot, grated
7. 1 tbsp olive oil
8. ½ tsp salt
9. ½ tsp black pepper
10. ½ tsp smoked paprika
11. 1 tsp dried oregano

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 cups crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp maple syrup or honey (optional, for balance)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

Prepare the Cabbage Leaves:

1. Boil the cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the outer leaves of the cabbage and blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until soft. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Filling:

2. Sauté the vegetables: In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and grated carrot, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Combine the filling: In a bowl, mix the cooked brown rice, lentils, sautéed vegetables, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.

Assemble the Rolls:

4. Stuff the cabbage leaves: Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold in the sides and roll tightly.
5. Prepare the sauce: In a saucepan, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Simmer the rolls: Place the cabbage rolls in a large skillet or baking dish, seam side down. Pour the tomato sauce over the rolls, cover, and simmer over low heat for 20-25 minutes.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 12 g
• Fats: 6 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 10 g
• Sugar: 8 g

Vitamins & Benefits

• Cabbage: High in vitamin K and antioxidants, great for digestion.
• Lentils: A fantastic plant-based protein and fiber source.
• Brown Rice: Provides complex carbs for sustained energy.

Stuffed cabbage rolls have variations in many cultures, from Eastern European golubtsy to Middle Eastern malfouf!

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze uncooked rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw before cooking.

FAQ

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! The recipe is naturally gluten-free with brown rice and lentils.

Can I use quinoa instead of rice?
Absolutely! Quinoa is a great high-protein substitute.

Can I bake instead of simmer?
Yes! Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 30 minutes, covered.