Macedonian Sarma (Сарма)

Сарма (Macedonian Sarma) is a traditional Macedonian dish made of cabbage leaves stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, ground meat, and spices. This hearty and comforting dish is a staple at Macedonian family gatherings and celebrations.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Main Course Macedonian (Greek) Macedonian Cuisine Stuffed Cabbage Traditional Recipe
Macedonian Sarma (Сарма)

Ingredients

  • 1 large head of cabbage
  • 1 cup of rice
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup of chopped parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups of tomato juice

Instructions

  1. Boil the whole head of cabbage in a large pot of water for 5 minutes. Remove from water and carefully peel off the leaves. Set aside.
  2. In a bowl, mix together the rice, ground beef, onion, garlic, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture onto each cabbage leaf and roll it up, tucking in the sides as you go.
  4. Place the rolled cabbage leaves in a large pot, seam side down. Pour the tomato juice over the sarma.
  5. Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 2 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
2 hours
Total time:
2 hours
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
300 per serving
Protein
15g
Carbohydrates
25g
Fat
12g

Supplies

Large pot Bowl Sharp knife Large pot for cooking

Tools

Cutting board Knife Spoon

Serving suggestions

Serve the сарма hot as a main course with a dollop of sour cream on top.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils and mushrooms.

Cost

$15