Lentil and Rice Cabbage Rolls

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Healthy lentil and rice cabbage rolls on a plate, garnished and ready to serve.

Lentil and Rice Cabbage Rolls

Lentil and Rice Cabbage Rolls are a delightful dish that’s both hearty and healthy. Perfect for busy home cooks, this recipe comes together quickly and uses simple ingredients. These rolls are packed with flavor and nutrients, making them a family favorite. Plus, they freeze well, so you can save some for later!

Emma Hale Story

As a busy mom, I understand the struggle of making dinner after a long day. One evening, I found myself staring at a head of cabbage and some leftover lentils. That’s when I decided to create these savory cabbage rolls. They became an instant hit! My kids love them, and they’re so flexible. You can add spices or change the filling based on what you have on hand.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love Lentil and Rice Cabbage Rolls for so many reasons. First, they are packed with protein, thanks to the lentils and rice. This makes them a filling choice for any meal. Plus, cabbage is low in calories, so you can enjoy them guilt-free. The flavors of garlic, onion, and smoked paprika combine beautifully, creating a satisfying dish. It’s easy to make a big batch, so it’s perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd. Get ready to save this recipe on Pinterest; everyone will want to try it!

Ingredients

  1. 1 head of cabbage – Look for a solid, fresh head without blemishes.
  2. 1 cup cooked lentils – Use green or brown lentils for the best texture.
  3. 1 cup cooked rice – Any cooked rice works, but brown rice adds extra nutrition.
  4. 1 onion, diced – A yellow or sweet onion adds a lovely flavor.
  5. 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic enhances the overall taste.
  6. 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce – Choose a brand without added sugars or preservatives.
  7. 1 teaspoon dried oregano – This adds a nice herbal note.
  8. 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – It gives a delicious depth of flavor.
  9. Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust to your liking.
  10. Olive oil for sautéing – Use extra virgin for a richer flavor.
  11. Fresh parsley for garnish (optional) – It adds a pop of color and freshness.

How to Make Lentil and Rice Cabbage Rolls

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Boil a large pot of water and blanch cabbage leaves for 2–3 minutes until pliable.

How to Serve

These cabbage rolls are a complete meal on their own. However, you can serve them with a light salad for extra crunch. A simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar goes well. If you enjoy a bit of heat, pair them with a side of spicy roasted vegetables. For a comforting touch, serve some warm bread or garlic toast on the side. These accompaniments create a well-rounded and satisfying dinner that everyone will enjoy.

How to Perfect This Recipe

To make the best cabbage rolls, ensure the leaves are soft and pliable before filling. This prevents them from tearing. If you find the rolls difficult to roll up, you can trim the thick part of the stem slightly. This helps with folding. Don’t skip the sautéing step; it adds flavor to the onion and garlic, making a great base for the filling. Finally, allow the rolls to rest for a few minutes after baking; they’ll hold together better when serving!

Common Mistakes

  • Not blanching the cabbage leaves: This can lead to tough rolls. Always soften the leaves first.
  • Overstuffing the rolls: Keep the filling to about 2-3 tablespoons per leaf for easier rolling.
  • Skipping spices: The flavor comes from the spices, so don’t hold back!

Storage and Reheating

Leftover cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze well! Just wrap them tightly and store them. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes if thawed, or increase the time if frozen. You can also microwave them, but the oven keeps them nice and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cabbage rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep them a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate before baking.

Can I use other types of rice?
Absolutely! You can use white, brown, or even quinoa for a different twist.

How do I know when they are done?
They should be heated through and the cabbage should be fork-tender.

Can I put cheese in the filling?
Yes! Adding cheese like feta or mozzarella can make them even tastier. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning.

Conclusion

Give these Lentil and Rice Cabbage Rolls a try! They are nutritious, easy to make, and a great way to enjoy wholesome ingredients. I promise they will become a staple in your home. Happy cooking!

Lentil and Rice Cabbage Rolls

Lentil and Rice Cabbage Rolls

Lentil and Rice Cabbage Rolls

Hearty and healthy cabbage rolls filled with lentils and rice, perfect for meal prep or a family favorite.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Healthy, Vegetarian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cabbage Rolls
  • 1 head cabbage Look for a solid, fresh head without blemishes.
  • 1 cup cooked lentils Use green or brown lentils for the best texture.
  • 1 cup cooked rice Any cooked rice works, but brown rice adds extra nutrition.
  • 1 one onion, diced A yellow or sweet onion adds a lovely flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic enhances the overall taste.
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce Choose a brand without added sugars or preservatives.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano This adds a nice herbal note.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika It gives a delicious depth of flavor.
  • to taste salt and pepper Adjust to your liking.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing Use extra virgin for a richer flavor.
  • optional fresh parsley for garnish It adds a pop of color and freshness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Boil a large pot of water and blanch cabbage leaves for 2–3 minutes until pliable.
Cooking
  1. Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft.
  2. Combine cooked lentils, cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, tomato sauce, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  3. Spoon the mixture into each cabbage leaf and roll them up, tucking in the sides.
  4. Place the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish and cover with additional tomato sauce if desired.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes.

Notes

Allow the rolls to rest for a few minutes after baking for better serving. They store well in the fridge for up to 4 days or can be frozen for longer-term storage.

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