January 25, 2025

Vegan Cabbage Rolls with Lentil Filling

Two vegan cabbage rolls on a plate with tomato sauce and garnished with fresh herbs.

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Cabbage rolls are a beloved dish found in many cuisines worldwide, from Eastern European comfort food to Middle Eastern delicacies. This version of vegan cabbage rolls with a hearty lentil filling is both satisfying and nutritious, offering a plant-based twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prepping, this recipe combines tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a flavorful mixture of lentils, vegetables, and spices, all baked in a savory tomato sauce. Whether you’re a long-time vegan or exploring plant-based meals, these cabbage rolls are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You Will Love This Vegan Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Hearty and Comforting: The warm, savory filling and tender cabbage make this dish the ultimate comfort food.

Nutritious: Packed with protein-rich lentils and nutrient-dense vegetables, this recipe is as healthy as it is delicious.

Customizable: You can easily adapt the filling with different spices or vegetables to suit your preferences.

Simple Ingredients: Everything you need for this recipe can be found in a standard pantry or your local grocery store.

Make-Ahead Friendly: These rolls can be prepped in advance, making them perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Ingredient Notes

Ingredients for vegan cabbage rolls including cabbage, lentils, tomato paste, onion, carrot, garlic, olive oil, and spices.

Cabbage Leaves: Choose large, sturdy leaves that can hold the filling. Green cabbage is a classic choice, but savoy cabbage works just as well.
Cooked Lentils: Use green or brown lentils for their firm texture. Pre-cooked or canned lentils are convenient, but you can also cook them from scratch.
Olive Oil: Adds richness to the filling and prevents the rolls from sticking while baking.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics are essential for building flavor in the filling.
Carrot: Grated carrot adds a hint of sweetness and texture.
Tomato Paste: Enhances the umami flavor and thickens the filling.
Canned Tomatoes: They provide a tangy, rich base for the dish.
Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavor. You can use sweet or smoked paprika, depending on your preference.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the filling to perfection.
Homemade Marinara Sauce: For serving (optional)

Vegan Cabbage Rolls Recipe Tips

Blanching Cabbage Leaves: Boil the cabbage leaves for just a few minutes to make them pliable for rolling without tearing.

Fresh green cabbage leaves being blanched in a pot of boiling water with a wooden spoon.

Don’t Overfill: Use 2-3 tablespoons of filling per leaf to ensure the rolls stay intact and don’t burst during baking.

A pan filled with a mixture of lentils, carrots, tomatoes, and spices being stirred with a wooden spoon.

Layer the Rolls: Place the rolls seam-side down in the baking dish to keep them from unraveling.

A white baking dish filled with neatly arranged vegan cabbage rolls, placed on a wooden cutting board with a cloth napkin underneath.

Cover While Baking: Use foil to trap steam and cook the rolls evenly. Remove the foil toward the end for a slightly caramelized top.

What to Serve with Cabbage Rolls (Vegan)

Cabbage rolls are a meal in themselves, but they pair beautifully with side dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy vegan mashed potatoes complement the rich flavors of the rolls.

Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up the savory tomato sauce.

Side Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the meal.

Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make great, simple sides.

Pickles: A touch of acidity from pickled cucumbers or beets enhances the overall flavor profile.

Storing Tips

Refrigerator: Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Freezer: These rolls freeze beautifully. Place them in a freezer-safe container with the sauce and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: Warm the rolls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave them for a quick meal.

Frequently Asked Questions about Vegan Cabbage Rolls

Q: Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?
A: Red cabbage can be used, but it has a firmer texture and a slightly different flavor. You may need to blanch it a bit longer.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your canned tomatoes and tomato paste don’t contain additives with gluten. Always check labels to be sure.

Q: Can I add rice or quinoa to the filling?
A: Absolutely! Rice or quinoa can be added for extra texture and bulk. Simply reduce the amount of lentils slightly to make room for the grains.

Q: Can I prepare the rolls ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the rolls and store them in the refrigerator (uncooked) for up to 24 hours. Bake them just before serving.

Vegan cabbage rolls served with tomato sauce and garnished with fresh parsley.

Essential Equipment

Large Pot: For blanching the cabbage leaves.

Skillet: To prepare the filling.

Baking Dish: A medium-sized dish works well for arranging the rolls snugly.

Foil: To cover the rolls during baking.

Sharp Knife: For cutting out the thick stem of the cabbage leaves.

Vegan cabbage rolls with lentil filling are a delightful, healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a comforting meal, these rolls deliver on both flavor and nutrition. Plus, they’re versatile, allowing you to customize the filling and accompaniments to suit your taste. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible to cooks of all skill levels.

Have you tried making these vegan cabbage rolls? I’d love to hear your thoughts or see your creative variations! Do you have a favorite filling combination or a unique twist on the recipe? Drop a comment below and let’s share ideas. Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram if you recreate this dish—I’d love to feature your creations!

Vegan Cabbage Rolls

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Vegan cabbage rolls stuffed with a flavorful lentil filling and baked in a savory tomato sauce are comforting, healthy, and satisfying plant-based meal.

Ingredients

6 large cabbage leaves
1 cup uncooked lentils
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small carrot, grated
1 tbsp tomato paste
1/2 cup canned tomatoes, chopped
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Baking Dish: 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 cup water,
For garnish: fresh parsley, chopped, Marinara sauce (optional).

Instructions

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Blanch the cabbage leaves for about 2-3 minutes until they are soft and pliable. Carefully remove and pat dry. Set aside.
Rinse the lentils and boil them for about 25 minutes in 3 cups of water. Drain any excess liquid. Set a side.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
Stir in the grated carrot and cook for another 2 minutes.
Add the tomato paste, canned tomatoes, cooked lentils, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Lay a cabbage leaf flat. Place 2-3 tablespoons of the filling near the base of the leaf.
Fold in the sides, then roll up tightly from the bottom to form a roll. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Drizzle olive oil on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the cabbage rolls snugly in the dish.
Pour the water over the rolls. Cover the dish with foil.
Bake the cabbage rolls for 30-35 minutes, removing the foil for the last 10 minutes to let the tops slightly brown.
Once baked, garnish with fresh parsley, Marinara sauce and serve warm.

Notes

Prep Cabbage Properly: Blanch the cabbage leaves until just tender to ensure they roll easily without tearing. Cut out the thick stem for easier wrapping.

Season Generously: Taste and adjust the filling's seasoning to ensure a balanced flavor that stands out after baking.

Prevent Dryness: Cover the rolls with foil while baking to trap steam and keep them moist, removing the foil in the final minutes for a lightly caramelized top.