Lenten cabbage rolls with vegetables in horseradish leaves

Vegan stuffed cabbage rolls with vegetables in horseradish leaves

Cabbage rolls are one of the most beloved traditional dishes, and today I will present you with a delicious recipe for vegan cabbage rolls, filled with vegetables and cooked in horseradish leaves. This dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients and an excellent choice for those looking to avoid animal products. Moreover, horseradish leaves add a unique and aromatic touch, transforming a classic recipe into a modern delight.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 100 g rice
- 150 g tomato paste
- 200 g sweet peas with carrots (frozen or fresh)
- 400 g jar of sliced mushrooms
- 2 onions
- 10 g thyme
- 10 g salt
- 10 g pepper
- 100 ml oil
- 20 horseradish leaves (or grape leaves)

A special ingredient: Horseradish is not only delicious but also has numerous health benefits. It is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it ideal in the cold season for boosting the immune system.

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by finely chopping the onion. Make sure you have all the ingredients ready and at hand so you can work efficiently and quickly. Buy fresh onions with a firm texture to achieve a more intense flavor.

2. Sautéing the onion:
In a large pan, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and starts to release its aroma.

3. Adding the vegetables:
After the onion has sautéed, add the peas and carrots, sliced mushrooms, and well-washed rice. Mix everything and let the mixture sauté for 10 minutes. During this time, the rice will begin to absorb the flavors of the vegetables.

4. Seasoning:
Add the tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients, then let the mixture simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Preparing the horseradish leaves:
If using horseradish leaves, it’s important to blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes to make them pliable. This step is essential to avoid breaking the leaves during filling.

6. Filling the leaves:
Take each horseradish leaf and add a tablespoon of the vegetable and rice mixture in the center of the leaf. Fold the leaf well so that the filling is securely enclosed. You can also use grape leaves, which add a different flavor note.

7. Arranging the cabbage rolls:
Place the cabbage rolls in a large pot, with the closed side down. If desired, you can add some horseradish leaves to the bottom of the pot for extra flavor.

8. Cooking the cabbage rolls:
Cover the cabbage rolls with water, ensuring they are completely submerged. You can also add a bit of extra tomato paste for added flavor. Place the pot over medium heat and let the cabbage rolls simmer for 1 hour. Alternatively, you can transfer them to a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius and bake for 1 hour, which will intensify the flavors.

9. Serving:
The vegan cabbage rolls with vegetables can be served warm, alongside vegan sour cream or tomato sauce. You can also add some slices of fresh bread to complete the meal. These cabbage rolls are perfect for festive meals or family dinners.

Practical tips:
- If you want to add extra protein, you can include lentils or chickpeas in the filling.
- Experiment with different spices, such as sweet paprika or herbs, to customize the vegetable mixture.
- You can prepare the cabbage rolls in advance and freeze them, so you always have them on hand for a quick meal.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This vegan cabbage roll recipe is rich in fiber and vitamins due to the fresh vegetables. Each serving contains approximately 250 calories, making it a healthy and nutritious choice.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other vegetables in the filling?
Yes, you can add zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach for a different taste.
- How can I make the cabbage rolls spicier?
Add hot peppers or spicy paprika to the vegetable mixture for a spicy kick.

This vegan cabbage roll recipe with vegetables in horseradish leaves is not just a culinary delight, but also a way to bring a touch of nature to your plate. Their rich taste and unmistakable aromas will make every meal a celebration. So, put on your chef's outfit and unleash your creativity by preparing these delicious cabbage rolls for yourself and your loved ones!

 Ingredients: 100g rice, 150g broth, a bag of sweet pea pods with carrots, 400g jar of sliced mushrooms, 314ml, 2 onions, 10g thyme, 1 teaspoon salt, 10g pepper, 100ml oil, 20 leaves of horseradish or vine.