Macedonian Tavče Gravče with Sarma (Makedonski Tavče Gravče s Sarma)

Makedonski Tavče Gravče s Sarma is a traditional Macedonian dish that combines Tavče Gravče, a flavorful bean stew, with Sarma, cabbage rolls filled with a savory mixture of rice and ground meat. This hearty and comforting dish is a staple in Balkan cuisine, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Main Course Balkan Macedonian Cuisine Balkan Cuisine Bean Stew Cabbage Rolls
Macedonian Tavče Gravče with Sarma (Makedonski Tavče Gravče s Sarma)

Ingredients

  • 2 cups white beans, soaked overnight
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 red bell peppers, diced
  • 1/4 cup sunflower oil
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 head of cabbage
  • 1/2 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup rice
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tavče Gravče: In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in sunflower oil until translucent. Add the diced bell peppers and cook for a few minutes. Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot. Pour in the tomato sauce and water. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and simmer for 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
  2. Prepare the Sarma: Boil the whole head of cabbage in a large pot of water for 5 minutes. Remove the cabbage from the water and carefully peel off the leaves. In a bowl, mix together the ground beef, rice, egg, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture onto each cabbage leaf and roll it up, tucking in the sides as you go.
  3. Assemble the Dish: Arrange the Sarma rolls on top of the cooked Tavče Gravče. Cover the pot and cook for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
15g
Carbohydrates
40g
Fat
12g

Supplies

Large pot Knife Cutting board Bowl

Tools

Stovetop

Serving suggestions

Serve the Makedonski Tavče Gravče s Sarma with a dollop of sour cream and a side of crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, you can omit the ground beef from the Sarma filling and use vegetable broth instead of water in the Tavče Gravče for added flavor.

Cost

$15