GRILLED CABBAGE WRAPS – Page 2

Ingredients for Grilled Cabbage Wraps

Here’s what you’ll need to make these flavorful, healthy wraps:

1 large head of cabbage (green or napa cabbage work best)
2 tablespoons olive oil (or your favorite oil for grilling)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for extra flavor and smokiness)

For the Filling (optional, but recommended):

1 lb ground meat (beef, chicken, turkey, or pork)
1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup shredded carrots (adds sweetness and crunch)
1/2 cup cooked rice (or quinoa for a healthier option)
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (or your favorite sauce)
Fresh herbs (cilantro, parsley, or green onions), for garnish

How to Make Grilled Cabbage Wraps

This recipe is simple and quick to prepare, and it’s the perfect way to enjoy cabbage in a whole new way. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Remove the outer leaves: Start by removing any tough or wilted outer leaves of the cabbage. You want to select the best, most intact leaves for wrapping.
Core the cabbage: Cut out the core of the cabbage, making a small V-shaped cut to loosen the leaves. Be careful not to cut too deeply, as you want to keep the leaves in one piece.
Blanch the cabbage leaves: To make the cabbage leaves more pliable and easier to wrap, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. Simply bring a large pot of water to a boil, then gently place the cabbage leaves in the water. Use tongs to remove them once they are softened and bright green. Set them aside to cool. If you prefer, you can skip this step and just grill the cabbage directly—blanching makes them easier to roll but isn’t absolutely necessary.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling (Optional)

Cook the filling: While the cabbage leaves are cooling, heat a pan over medium heat and add a little oil. Add your choice of ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula.
Add the vegetables: Once the meat is cooked through, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and shredded carrots. Stir to combine and cook for a few more minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Season the filling: Stir in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, smoked paprika, and any additional seasonings you like. Add salt and pepper to taste. You can also mix in cooked rice or quinoa at this stage for a heartier filling. Once everything is combined, remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Grill

Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, preheat it over medium heat.
Season the cabbage leaves: Lightly brush the cabbage leaves with olive oil, and sprinkle with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This will give the cabbage a flavorful char and ensure it doesn’t stick to the grill.

Step 4: Grill the Cabbage

Grill the cabbage: Place the cabbage leaves directly on the grill, with the stem side down. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, until they have nice grill marks and are slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook them—you want them tender but still holding their shape.
Flip carefully: Use tongs to flip the cabbage leaves. Once the cabbage leaves are cooked to your liking, remove them from the grill.

Step 5: Assemble the Wraps

Fill the cabbage leaves: Lay each grilled cabbage leaf flat and spoon a portion of the filling (or whatever ingredients you’re using) into the center of each leaf. If you prefer, you can also add sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or bean sprouts for a vegetarian option.
Wrap it up: Carefully fold in the sides of the cabbage leaf over the filling, and then roll it up tightly like a burrito. The cabbage leaf should hold everything together, but be gentle to prevent the filling from spilling out.
Serve: Serve the wraps warm, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro, green onions, or parsley. You can also drizzle some extra soy sauce, sriracha, or peanut sauce over the top for added flavor.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Cabbage Wraps

Blanching Tip: If you’re looking to save time, you can skip blanching the cabbage leaves and just grill them directly. However, blanching will make them easier to handle and roll.
Use a Non-stick Grill Pan: If you don’t have an outdoor grill, a non-stick grill pan works just as well to achieve that smoky char and crisp texture.
Adjust the Filling: You can make the filling more customized to your tastes. Consider adding bell peppers, cooked chicken, or spicy sausage to give it more variety. Even vegetarian fillings like avocado and beans work wonderfully in this recipe.
Make it a Meal: Serve the wraps with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or a fresh salad to make it a full meal.
Meal Prep: You can prepare the grilled cabbage wraps ahead of time by grilling the cabbage and filling it with your chosen ingredients. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Why You Should Make Grilled Cabbage Wraps

These Grilled Cabbage Wraps are more than just a delicious side dish—they’re a fun and healthy way to enjoy a variety of fillings wrapped in a crispy, smoky cabbage leaf. They’re low-carb, gluten-free, and can be customized with any filling you like, from proteins to veggies and sauces.

Grilling the cabbage brings out its natural sweetness, and the smoky char adds an irresistible depth of flavor. Whether you’re serving them as a light lunch, a fresh appetizer, or as a main course with your favorite filling, these wraps will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Conclusion

Grilled Cabbage Wraps are a creative and tasty way to enjoy cabbage in a whole new way. With their smoky, tender cabbage leaves and flavorful fillings, they’re perfect for a healthy meal or as a fun side dish at your next BBQ. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, this recipe is one you’ll return to again and again for a fresh and delicious meal that’s both satisfying and good for you. Don’t forget to get creative with your fillings and sauces—there’s no wrong way to enjoy these wraps!

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