How to Make French Vegan Stuffed Cabbage
French vegan stuffed cabbage, also known as "chou farci," is a delicious and healthy dish that showcases the essence of French cuisine while keeping it completely plant-based. This recipe combines hearty ingredients and flavorful spices, making it an excellent option for vegan and non-vegan eaters alike. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this delightful dish.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 cup quinoa (or rice)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) of black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Carefully remove the core from the cabbage head and boil it in salted water for about 10-15 minutes, or until the outer leaves become tender. Remove the cabbage from the pot, and let it cool. Carefully peel off 8-10 outer leaves for stuffing, and set them aside.
Step 2: Cook the Quinoa
In a medium pot, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and all the broth is absorbed. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute. Then, add the black beans and cooked quinoa to the skillet, mixing everything well.
Step 4: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls
Take one cabbage leaf, and place a generous amount of the quinoa filling at the base of the leaf. Fold the sides in and roll it up tightly from the base to the tip. Repeat this process for all cabbage leaves. You’ll have a delightful array of stuffed cabbage rolls.
Step 5: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
In a large baking dish or casserole, spread a layer of crushed tomatoes on the bottom. This prevents the cabbage rolls from sticking while adding delicious flavor.
Step 6: Bake the Stuffed Cabbage
Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the baking dish, and cover them with the remaining crushed tomatoes. Cover the dish with foil to keep the humidity in and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Optionally, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a delightful presentation. Serve warm and enjoy your French vegan stuffed cabbage!
Final Thoughts
This French vegan stuffed cabbage is not only nutritious but also packed with flavor, making it a perfect dish for family dinners or gatherings. Feel free to customize the filling with other veggies or legumes to suit your taste. Bon appétit!