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Chinese Napa Cabbage Rolls with Tofu Fillings

Delicious Chinese Napa Cabbage Rolls with Tofu Fillings Recipe

Vegan Chinese Napa Cabbage Rolls with Tofu Fillings are a healthy, flavor-packed meal perfect for dinner.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 rolls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

For the Wrapper
  • Napa Cabbage Leaves Choose fresh leaves for the best texture and easy wrapping.
For the Filling
  • 1 block Extra Firm Tofu Crumble into the mix for a hearty protein source that mimics meat.
  • 1 cup Cooked Brown Rice Adds bulk and fiber; quinoa can be substituted for a nutty flavor.
  • 1 cup Shiitake Mushrooms Provides deep umami flavor; swap for cremini if you prefer.
  • 1 medium Carrot Offers a slight sweetness and crunch; feel free to add bell peppers for variety.
  • 2 stalks Scallions Use both white and green parts to maximize flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic gives the best taste; avoid pre-minced for optimal flavor.
  • to taste Salt Adjust to your taste for a well-rounded seasoning.
  • to taste White Pepper Adds subtle spice; black pepper is a suitable alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Arrowroot Powder/Cornstarch Helps bind the filling together; can be omitted if you don’t have it.
For the Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Tamari/Soy Sauce Use gluten-free tamari for a rich, salty depth to your sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon Coconut Amino A sweeter alternative to soy sauce; mix with tamari and a bit of brown sugar for a substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar Balances flavors with acidity; apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch.
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil Adds a lovely nutty flavor; use toasted sesame oil for extra richness.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Non-stick skillet
  • small saucepan
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare Cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully place napa cabbage leaves into the boiling water for about 1 minute until they soften. Transfer them to a bowl of ice-cold water to halt the cooking process. Drain and pat dry.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add oil and heat until shimmering. Add the white parts of the scallions and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2 minutes. Add the diced carrots and shiitake mushrooms, stirring until softened.
  3. Combine Filling: Crumble the extra firm tofu into the skillet, mixing for 2-3 minutes. Add tamari, coconut amino, rice vinegar, cooked brown rice and arrowroot powder, mixing until a hearty filling forms well-seasoned with salt and white pepper.
  4. Fill Cabbage Leaves: Trim the hard stem from each napa cabbage leaf. Spoon about 1.5 tablespoons of the filling onto the leaf, fold in the sides, and roll tightly. Repeat until all are rolled.
  5. Pan-Fry Rolls: In a skillet, add oil and heat over medium-high. Place cabbage rolls seam-side down and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Make Sauce: In a small saucepan, heat oil and sauté garlic and scallions. Pour in tamari, rice vinegar, and coconut amino, bringing to a boil. Whisk arrowroot powder with warm water separately and add to thicken the sauce.
  7. Serve: Plate the crispy cabbage rolls, drizzle with savory sauce, and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green scallions. Enjoy your vegan Chinese Napa Cabbage Rolls.

Nutrition

Serving: 1rollCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 10gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 500mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, ensure even filling distribution and keep sauce separate when storing leftovers.

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