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lentil bolognese stuffed cabbage rolls

Hearty Lentil Bolognese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

These hearty Lentil Bolognese Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a comforting and flavorful plant-based twist on a classic dish. Tender cabbage leaves embrace a rich and savory lentil bolognese filling, creating a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of cabbage
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 carrot, chopped
  • 1 celery stalk, chopped
  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove the core of the cabbage and place the whole head into the boiling water. Boil for 5-7 minutes, or until the outer leaves start to soften and become pliable.
  2. Remove the cabbage from the pot and carefully peel off the softened leaves. Set aside to cool. You should need about 10-12 leaves. If some leaves tear, that’s okay!
  3. While the cabbage is cooling, prepare the lentil bolognese. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add lentils, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened. Add vegetable broth if the sauce gets too thick.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  6. To assemble the cabbage rolls, place a cabbage leaf on a flat surface. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the lentil mixture onto the base of the leaf. Fold in the sides of the leaf, then roll it up from the bottom to the top, like a burrito.
  7. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour any remaining lentil bolognese sauce over the cabbage rolls.
  8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cabbage rolls are heated through.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Serve with a dollop of vegan sour cream or a sprinkle of vegan parmesan cheese for added flavor and richness.