Ingredients
Method
Prepare the Rice:
- Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Cook the rice according to package instructions. Set aside to cool.
Blanch the Cabbage Leaves:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Carefully separate the cabbage leaves and blanch them in boiling water for 30-40 seconds until they become soft and pliable.
- Remove and place them on a towel to dry.
Cook the Filling:
- Heat 1/2 tbsp oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, ginger, and garlic. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in carrots, peppers, and mushrooms. Cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Add tamari, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
- Mix in cooked rice and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Assemble the Cabbage Rolls:
- Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface.
- Place a spoonful of the filling in the center.
- Fold the sides of the cabbage over the filling, then roll tightly from bottom to top like a burrito.
- Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
Make the Sauce:
- Heat 1 tsp oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Add ginger and garlic, sauté for 30 seconds.
- Stir in tamari, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and water.
- Mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water, then stir into the sauce to thicken.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Cook the Cabbage Rolls:
- Heat 1/2 tbsp oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.
- Pour the sauce over the rolls and simmer for 5 minutes.
Garnish & Serve:
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the rolls.
- Serve hot with extra sauce on the side.
Notes
- Blanching the cabbage leaves helps prevent tearing.
- Add tofu, tempeh, or lentils for extra protein.
- Serve with steamed jasmine rice, miso soup, or an Asian slaw.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat by steaming or microwaving for 1-2 minutes.
- Can be frozen before cooking; thaw in the fridge overnight before steaming or pan-frying.