Cabbage Rolls

These Vegan Lebanese Cabbage Rolls are a delightful combination of spiced rice and vegetables wrapped in tender cabbage leaves, simmered in a tangy tomato sauce. A wholesome and satisfying dish that highlights the flavors of the Mediterranean.

Ingredients

• Green cabbage - 1 medium head
• Long-grain rice - 100 grams
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Tomato - 1 large, diced
• Red bell pepper - 1 small, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Parsley - 30 grams, chopped
• Mint - 15 grams, chopped
• Cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon
• Allspice - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Vegetable broth - 500 milliliters
• Tomato paste - 2 tablespoons
• Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon
• Water - 200 milliliters

Steps

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage head and blanch the whole head in the boiling water for about 5 minutes until the leaves are tender. Remove and let cool.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomato and red bell pepper to the skillet, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes. Stir in the rice, parsley, mint, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
4. Pour in 200 milliliters of vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 15 minutes until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Once the cabbage leaves are cool enough to handle, carefully peel off 8-10 leaves. Trim the thick vein at the base of each leaf to make them easier to roll.
6. Take a cabbage leaf, place about 2 tablespoons of the rice filling at the base of the leaf, fold in the sides, and roll tightly. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
7. In a large pot, mix the remaining vegetable broth, tomato paste, and lemon juice. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the pot, making sure they fit snugly. Pour any remaining sauce over the rolls.
8. Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes until heated through and the flavors meld. Serve warm.

Nutrition

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 7 g
• Carbs: 60 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 500 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in fiber, promoting digestive health.
• High in vitamins C and K, supporting immune function and bone health.

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