Check out this Polish vegan stuffed cabbage rolls recipe
Polish vegan stuffed cabbage rolls, or golabki, offer a vegan take on a classic Polish dish. Traditionally featuring meat and rice, this version uses a plant-based filling. A staple in Polish cuisine for centuries, these rolls are more than comfort food; they symbolize family unity and cultural heritage. They're not just a meal but an experience. Let's start cooking.
Gather the following ingredients
To make these vegan stuffed cabbage rolls, you'll need one large head of cabbage, two cups of cooked rice, one cup of lentils (cooked), one onion (finely chopped), two cloves of garlic (minced), one carrot (grated), two tablespoons of tomato paste, one teaspoon of smoked paprika, salt and pepper to taste, and two cups of vegetable broth.
Prepare the cabbage leaves
Begin by carefully removing the leaves from your head of cabbage. You'll want to keep them intact as much as possible for rolling later. To do this easily, core the cabbage and blanch it in boiling water for about three minutes or until the leaves are pliable but not fully cooked. Then, drain and set aside to cool.
Make the filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, saute the onion and garlic until translucent. Add in the grated carrot and cook for another couple of minutes before incorporating the cooked rice and lentils. Stir in tomato paste, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook everything together for about five minutes then remove from heat to cool slightly.
Roll them up!
Place a portion of the filling at the base of a cabbage leaf. Fold the sides inward first, then roll it up tightly toward the leaf's top end. Repeat with all leaves until the filling is used. This ensures each roll is neatly packed, maintaining the integrity and flavor of the dish while securing the filling inside.
Bake your rolls
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Place the cabbage rolls seam side down in a baking dish, fitting them closely together. Cover with vegetable broth until just covered, then bake with foil for about 45 minutes or until heated through. Serve these Polish vegan stuffed cabbage rolls hot, perfect for a main course or during special family gatherings.