How to Make Turkish Vegetarian Cabbage Rolls (Lahana Dolmasi)
Turkish vegetarian cabbage rolls, known as Lahana Dolması, are a delightful and healthy dish that showcase the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine. This mouthwatering recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. Let's dive into the step-by-step process of making these delicious rolls!
Ingredients
To prepare Lahana Dolması, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried mint
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste
- Vegetable stock or water for cooking
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Cabbage
1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core of the cabbage and gently place the whole head into the boiling water for about 5-7 minutes, or until the outer leaves are tender and pliable.
2. Once softened, remove the cabbage from the water and let it cool. Carefully peel off the outer leaves, setting aside about 12-15 leaves for the rolls. Return any unused cabbage to the pot for later use in soups or salads.
Making the Filling
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until they are golden and fragrant.
2. Stir in the grated carrot and chopped red bell pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add the rinsed rice to the skillet along with dried mint, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors for a couple of minutes.
4. Stir in the tomato paste and add about 1.5 cups of vegetable stock or water. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the skillet. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and all the liquid is absorbed. Allow the filling to cool slightly before using.
Assembling the Rolls
1. Take a cabbage leaf and place about 2-3 tablespoons of filling at the base of the leaf. Fold the sides over the filling, then carefully roll the leaf from the base to the tip, creating a tight roll.
2. Repeat this process with the remaining leaves and filling until all ingredients are used. If you have leftover cabbage, you can chop it and layer it at the bottom of your pot for extra flavor.
Cooking the Cabbage Rolls
1. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a large pot. Pack them tightly to prevent them from unraveling during cooking.
2. Add enough vegetable stock or water to cover the rolls. Optionally, you can drizzle a little olive oil and sprinkle some paprika on top for added flavor.
3. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 40-50 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
Serving Suggestions
Once the Lahana Dolması are ready, serve them warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or dill. They pair wonderfully with a dollop of yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice on top.
These Turkish vegetarian cabbage rolls are not just a healthy meal option, but also a comforting dish that brings the flavors of Turkey into your kitchen. Enjoy your Lahana Dolması as a main course, at family gatherings, or as part of a festive spread!