Sometimes the coziest meals come from the most unexpected places. I didn’t grow up eating cabbage rolls, but one day I needed something warm, healthy, and fridge-friendly—and this recipe totally surprised me.

It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re eating comfort food, except it’s packed with fiber, plant-based protein, and all the feel-good ingredients. Think tender cabbage leaves hugging a savory tofu-mushroom filling, all simmered in a tomato sauce that somehow gets better by the day.

Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or just craving something wholesome that isn’t another salad, this one hits the spot.

Cabbage Roll Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 whole cabbage
• 1 carrot
• ½ onion
• 100g mushrooms
• 1 bowl of cooked rice (210 grams)
• 300g tofu
• 1 TBS nutmeg
• 1 TBS pepper
• 1 TBS salt
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 2 cups water

Instructions:

1. Cut around the cabbage core so the leaves peel off easily.

2. Blanch the leaves until soft enough to roll.

3. Press the tofu using a tofu press or clean cloth to remove excess water.

4. Finely chop the carrot, onion, and mushrooms.

5. Combine the chopped veggies with tofu, salt, nutmeg, and pepper.  (Optional: Add in rice for extra texture and satiety)

6. Trim the thick stem from each cabbage leaf to make rolling easier.

7. Add a scoop of filling to each leaf and roll it up like a mini burrito.

9. Spread tomato sauce on the bottom of a large pot.

10. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down, layering as needed.

11. Cover each layer with more tomato sauce.

12. Pour in the water, cover, and simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes.

13. That’s it! Serve warm and top with Tabasco or any hot sauce if you’re like me and want that little kick.

14. Let them cool, then portion into meal-prep containers.  They should be good in the fridge for up to about 5 days.

15. Finally, enjoy eating!

 

Why You’ll Love This Dish

✅ Meal-prep magic – make once, enjoy all week.
✅ Plant-based goodness – tofu, mushrooms, and cabbage bring protein, fiber, and flavor.
✅ Low-waste friendly – minimal ingredients, maximum use.
✅ Unexpectedly addictive – that savory filling + tomato sauce combo is chef’s kiss.

This one’s officially in my weekly rotation—and if you try it, I’d love to see how yours turns out! Drop a comment or tag me so we can share the cabbage roll love. 🥬❤️

 

📲 Recipe reel: Vegan cabbage rolls