These Asian-inspired vegan cabbage rolls feature tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a flavorful rice and vegetable filling, served alongside a savory Chinese garlic sauce. This versatile dish is perfect for lunch or dinner, offering a gluten-free and naturally vegan option. 

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 1 cup (190g) white rice
• 1 medium head of napa cabbage (or cabbage of choice)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chinese Garlic Sauce:

• ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable broth
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• ½ tablespoon vegetable oil
• 4 teaspoons fresh garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced

Directions

1. Prepare the Rice: Rinse and soak the rice for 45-60 minutes. Drain and cook in a pan with water and salt until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
2. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves: Bring a large pot of water to boil. Add 3-4 cabbage leaves at a time, cooking until just tender (2-3 minutes). Remove and place in a bowl of cold water. Repeat with remaining leaves.
3. Prepare the Filling: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger for 2-3 minutes. Add carrot, bell pepper, and mushrooms; cook for another 3-4 minutes. Stir in tamari, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Add the cooked rice to the vegetable mixture, stirring to combine. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
4. Assemble the Cabbage Rolls: Place about 1 ½-2 tablespoons of filling onto each cabbage leaf. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly to form a neat parcel. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
5. Cook the Cabbage Rolls: Heat a large, oiled skillet over medium heat. Add the cabbage rolls, seam-side down, and pan-sear for a few minutes on each side until golden brown.
6. Prepare the Chinese Garlic Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together vegetable broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and cornstarch. Heat vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic and ginger for 30-60 seconds. Whisk the sauce mixture again and pour into the saucepan. Bring to a boil and let simmer for a few minutes until thickened, stirring frequently.
7. Serve: Pour the sauce over the cabbage rolls, sprinkle with sesame seeds (optional), and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Serving Size: 1 cabbage roll
• Calories: 120
• Total Fat: 3g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 4g

Why You’ll Love These Vegan Cabbage Rolls

Vegan cabbage rolls are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, plant-based meal while still indulging in a hearty and satisfying dish. These rolls combine tender cabbage leaves with a flavorful rice and vegetable filling, topped with a delicious Chinese garlic sauce. Whether you are vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this dish is a must-try. These cabbage rolls stand out because they are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize the filling with your favorite vegetables, add protein-rich ingredients like tofu or lentils, and even switch up the sauce to match different cuisines. Plus, they make for an excellent meal prep option, as they store well and taste even better the next day.

Health Benefits of Vegan Cabbage Rolls

One of the biggest advantages of this dish is its nutritional profile. Cabbage itself is a nutrient powerhouse, rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. It supports digestion, promotes heart health, and may even help reduce inflammation. The rice and vegetable filling provides essential nutrients like fiber, protein, and various vitamins, making it a well-balanced meal.

Customizing Your Vegan Cabbage Rolls

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. While the original version uses a mixture of rice, mushrooms, carrots, and bell peppers, there are countless ways to personalize it. Here are a few ideas:

• Protein Boost: Add crumbled tofu, cooked lentils, chickpeas, or quinoa to increase the protein content.
• Grain Variations: Swap out white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or even bulgur for added fiber and nutrients.
• Sauce Alternatives: While the Chinese garlic sauce is delicious, you can experiment with tomato-based sauces, tahini dressings, or even a simple soy sauce glaze.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or fresh chili for an extra kick.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.

How to Store and Reheat Vegan Cabbage Rolls

These cabbage rolls are great for meal prep and can be stored for future meals. If you plan to make them in advance, here’s how to store them properly:

• Refrigeration: Store the cabbage rolls in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain the best texture.
• Freezing: Place cooled cabbage rolls in a freezer-safe container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth until warmed through. You can also microwave them for 1-2 minutes.

Pairing Ideas for a Complete Meal

While these cabbage rolls are satisfying on their own, you can elevate your meal by pairing them with complementary sides:

• Steamed Rice: A simple bowl of jasmine or brown rice makes a great addition.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A medley of stir-fried bok choy, snap peas, and carrots can enhance the flavors.
• Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds depth and warmth to your meal.
• Asian-Inspired Slaw: A fresh cabbage slaw with a sesame dressing can add a crunchy contrast.
• Spring Rolls: Serve with vegan spring rolls for a complete feast.

Cultural Influence and Inspiration

Cabbage rolls have a rich history in various cultures, from Eastern European stuffed cabbage to Asian-inspired wraps. This particular recipe draws inspiration from traditional Asian flavors, combining the delicate texture of cabbage leaves with a bold, savory garlic sauce. The use of soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil creates an umami-packed dish that is both comforting and exciting. While traditional cabbage rolls often include meat, this vegan version proves that plant-based ingredients can be just as satisfying. By utilizing mushrooms, rice, and seasonings, you can achieve a similar heartiness without compromising on flavor.

Tips for Perfect Vegan Cabbage Rolls

• Choose the Right Cabbage: Napa cabbage works well because of its soft texture, but green cabbage or savoy cabbage also work beautifully.
• Blanch the Leaves Properly: Softening the cabbage leaves makes them easier to roll and prevents them from tearing.
• Don’t Overfill: Using too much filling can make rolling difficult and cause them to fall apart during cooking.
• Sear for Extra Flavor: Lightly pan-searing the rolls before serving adds a nice texture and enhances the overall taste.
• Let the Flavors Marinate: These rolls taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Conclusion

Vegan cabbage rolls are a delicious, nutritious, and versatile meal that can be customized to suit your taste. With their rich, savory flavor and satisfying texture, they are sure to become a staple in your plant-based meal rotation. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or simply trying something new, these cabbage rolls offer an easy and delicious way to enjoy a wholesome, homemade meal.