These Savory Cabbage Rolls with Vegetables are a delicious and hearty dish that’s perfect for any meal. Filled with a mixture of sautéed vegetables and wrapped in tender cabbage leaves, these rolls are then encased in crispy filo pastry for an added layer of texture. This versatile recipe is not only vegetarian but can easily be made vegan by substituting butter with olive oil. Serve them as a main course or a side dish, and enjoy a comforting and nutritious meal that’s full of flavor and warmth.
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 1 medium cabbage, leaves separated and blanched
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, grated
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 400g (14 oz) mushrooms, sliced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For Wrapping:
- 8 sheets of filo pastry
- Butter or olive oil, for brushing
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
- Blanch the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully separate the cabbage leaves from the head and blanch them in the boiling water for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are pliable. Remove the leaves from the water and set them aside to cool. Blanching makes the leaves easier to roll and helps them cook evenly in the oven.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add Remaining Vegetables: Add the grated carrots, diced bell pepper, potatoes, zucchini, and mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté for about 8-10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Season and Thicken: Stir in the paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Add the tomato paste and vegetable broth, mixing well to combine. Let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Set aside to cool slightly before assembling the rolls.
Step 3: Roll the Cabbage Leaves
- Fill and Roll: Lay a blanched cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Place a spoonful of the vegetable filling at one end of the leaf. Roll the leaf tightly, folding in the sides to secure the filling as you go. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling. Ensure the rolls are tightly packed to prevent them from opening during baking.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent the rolls from sticking.
- Arrange Rolls: Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. This helps keep them intact as they bake.
Step 5: Wrap in Filo Pastry
- Wrap in Filo: Place each cabbage roll onto a sheet of filo pastry. Roll tightly, folding in the edges, and brush the outside with melted butter or olive oil. The filo adds a crispy, flaky layer to the rolls. Repeat for all the rolls and arrange them in the baking dish.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake the Rolls: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the filo pastry is golden and crisp. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the rolls towards the end to prevent burning.
Step 7: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the rolls with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve the cabbage rolls warm, either on their own or with a side of yogurt or a light salad. They make a satisfying main course or a delicious side dish.
Tips for Perfect Savory Cabbage Rolls
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, corn, or peas. You can also include grains like cooked rice or quinoa for a more filling dish.
- Make It Ahead: These rolls can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- Vegan Option: To make this dish vegan, use olive oil instead of butter when brushing the filo pastry.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair these cabbage rolls with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or a tangy yogurt dip for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information (per roll, makes about 8 rolls)
- Calories: 160
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 210mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 4g
Enjoy these Savory Cabbage Rolls with Vegetables as a nutritious and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With a mix of tender vegetables wrapped in crisp filo, these rolls are sure to impress your family and friends. They’re not only a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet but also an excellent option for a comforting, homemade dish that everyone will love!