Lahana Sarma (tangy Cabbage Rolls)

Lahana Sarma, or Tangy Cabbage Rolls, is a traditional dish from Crimean Tatar cuisine. These flavorful cabbage rolls are filled with a delicious mixture of rice, ground meat, and aromatic spices, then simmered in a tangy tomato-based sauce.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Main Course Crimean Tatar Cabbage Rolls Tangy Stovetop Cooking
Lahana Sarma (tangy Cabbage Rolls)

Ingredients

  • 1 large head of cabbage
  • 1 cup uncooked rice
  • 1 lb ground beef or lamb
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head in the boiling water. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the outer leaves are softened. Remove the cabbage from the water and carefully peel off the softened leaves. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the uncooked rice, ground meat, onion, garlic, paprika, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place a spoonful of the rice and meat mixture onto each cabbage leaf, then roll them up, tucking in the sides to create a neat roll.
  4. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Place the cabbage rolls seam side down in the pot. Pour the crushed tomatoes and broth over the rolls. Cover and simmer for 1 hour, or until the rice is fully cooked.
  5. Serve the cabbage rolls hot, spooning the tangy tomato sauce over the top.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
300 per serving
Protein
15g
Carbohydrates
30g
Fat
12g

Supplies

Large pot Large bowl Sharp knife Large pot or Dutch oven

Tools

Wooden spoon Cooking tongs Cover for the pot

Serving suggestions

Serve the Lahana Sarma with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream on the side, and a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground meat with cooked lentils or mushrooms for a delicious alternative.

Cost

$15