Description
This Baked Cabbage with Lentil and Walnut Mixture is a hearty, plant-based dish packed with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. Layers of tender cabbage, smoky lentils, and crunchy walnuts come together in a savory tomato-infused sauce. It’s a comforting, protein-rich meal perfect for weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
- 500g (1 lb) cabbage, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon smoked garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian herbs
- 190g (3/4 cup) lentils, rinsed
- 90g (1/2 cup) raw rice, rinsed
- 75g (1/2 cup) walnuts, chopped
- 400g (14 oz) canned chopped tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon date syrup
- 700ml (3 cups) vegetable stock
- Chopped chives (optional, for garnish)
- Plant-based yogurt (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking dish.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, smoked garlic powder, and Italian herbs. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Prepare the Filling: Add lentils, rice, walnuts, canned tomatoes, date syrup, and vegetable stock. Stir well and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, until slightly thickened.
- Assemble the Dish: Spread half of the chopped cabbage in the baking dish. Pour the lentil-walnut mixture over it, then top with the remaining cabbage.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes for a slightly crispy top.
- Garnish & Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped chives and serve with plant-based yogurt if desired.
Notes
- Lentil Options: Brown or green lentils work best. Red lentils tend to get mushy.
- Nut-Free Option: Swap walnuts for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
- Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freezes well for 2 months.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble up to a day in advance and bake when ready.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean