This stew draws inspiration from traditional German winter cooking but reimagines it through a plant-based, nutrient-dense lens. Cabbage is often relegated to side-dish status, but here it becomes the star, slowly braised until it develops deep, sweet complexity. The combination of white beans and green lentils provides complete protein whilst adding creamy texture and earthy depth. I've used both the core and outer leaves of the cabbage, and even the bean cooking liquid becomes part of the stew. The toasted sesame seeds aren't merely decorative—they add healthy fats, a delicate nuttiness, and crucial minerals like zinc and selenium that support immune function. This is comfort food that also happens to be extraordinarily nutritious.
