Cabbage rolls with mushrooms for fasting
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Mushrooms – A Unique Recipe for the Soul and Taste Buds
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour – 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6
Step into the culinary world of stuffed cabbage rolls with mushrooms, a recipe that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of nostalgia in every bite. These rolls are perfect for fasting days or for a delicious vegetarian meal. With a mix of aromatic mushrooms, rice, and spices, each roll is an explosion of flavor and texture. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure!
Necessary ingredients
- 500-600 gr forest mushrooms (you can also use champignon mushrooms)
- 150-200 gr rice (preferably long-grain rice)
- 1 large carrot
- 1 large red onion
- 3-4 tablespoons of tomato passata
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
- Grape leaves (or pickled cabbage, according to preference)
- Dried thyme
- Dried dill
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Paprika (for extra flavor)
Step 1: Preparing the mushrooms
Start by boiling a pot of water with a teaspoon of salt. When the water is boiling, add the mushrooms and let them boil for 2-3 minutes. This step will not only reduce the cooking time but also intensify the flavor of the mushrooms. After boiling, drain them well and keep some of the water for soaking the rice later.
Step 2: Preparing the filling mixture
In a large skillet, add a few tablespoons of olive oil, then add the cleaned and finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion on low heat until it becomes translucent, then add the grated carrot. Continue to sauté, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes.
Now, chop the boiled mushrooms into small cubes and add them to the skillet. Allow them to sauté together with the onion and carrot until most of the water evaporates. This will concentrate the flavors and make the filling more delicious.
Step 3: Adding the rice
Once the mushrooms, onion, and carrot are well sautéed, add the drained rice along with the water from boiling the mushrooms. Also add the tomato passata, mixing everything well. Let the mixture simmer on low heat, covered, until the water evaporates and the rice becomes tender. Here you can adjust the taste with salt, pepper, and a little paprika for color and flavor.
Step 4: Forming the rolls
While the mushroom mixture cools, prepare the grape leaves or pickled cabbage. If using grape leaves, make sure they are soft and easy to roll. If they are too stiff, you can blanch them quickly in hot water to make them more flexible.
On each leaf, add a tablespoon of the mushroom mixture, then carefully roll, folding the edges to prevent the filling from spilling out. Continue forming the rolls until the filling is finished.
Step 5: Cooking the rolls
On the bottom of a large pot, place a few grape leaves, then add a tablespoon of tomato passata, thyme, and dill. Arrange the rolls in a circle, in layers, covering them with more grape leaves. Add some more passata, thyme, and dill, then pour water (with a little salt) to cover the rolls.
Put the pot on medium heat and let it simmer on low for 1 hour - 1 hour and a half. You can gently shake the pot occasionally to ensure the rolls cook evenly. To check if they are cooked, take one out and taste it - the filling should be tender and full of flavor.
Step 6: Serving
Stuffed cabbage rolls with mushrooms are served hot, with a spoonful of vegan sour cream or a fresh salad. You can also add some hot pepper for an extra kick. This recipe pairs wonderfully with a refreshing drink, such as herbal tea or natural juice.
Practical tips:
- Choose fresh mushrooms for an intense flavor, but canned mushrooms can also be successfully used.
- If you want a spicy note, add a chopped hot pepper to the filling mixture.
- For an even richer taste, you can add some fennel or cumin seeds to the filling.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but it will require a longer cooking time. Make sure to soak it well before adding.
2. How can I make the rolls less acidic?
You can reduce the amount of tomato passata or add a little sugar to the mixture.
3. What are the alternatives to grape leaves?
Pickled cabbage is an excellent option, but potato leaves can also be used for a more unconventional variant.
Nutritional benefits:
These rolls are a healthy choice, rich in fiber due to the mushrooms and vegetables. Mushrooms provide vitamins and minerals, while rice offers essential carbohydrates. Additionally, preparing them without meat makes them an excellent option for vegans and vegetarians.
Possible variations:
- You can experiment with different types of mushrooms - porcini, oyster, or even shiitake for a unique flavor.
- Add various grated vegetables, such as zucchini or bell pepper, to enrich the filling.
Stuffed cabbage rolls with mushrooms are more than just a meal; they are a culinary experience that will bring you joy and satisfaction. We wish you happy cooking and bon appétit!
Ingredients: 1 large carrot, 1 large red onion, olive oil, thyme, dill, salt, pepper, paprika, 150-200 g rice, tomato passata, 500-600 g wild mushrooms, grape leaves (or pickled cabbage)
