Sarma (albanian Stuffed Grape Leaves)

Sarma is a traditional dish in Arbëreshë cuisine, made with grape leaves stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, ground meat, and herbs. It's a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Sarma (albanian Stuffed Grape Leaves)

Ingredients

  • 1 jar of grape leaves
  • 1 cup of rice
  • 1 lb of ground beef
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup of chopped fresh dill
  • 1/4 cup of olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon of paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lemon, sliced

Instructions

  1. Rinse the grape leaves under cold water to remove excess salt, then drain and pat dry.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the rice, ground beef, onion, parsley, dill, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place a grape leaf on a flat surface, shiny side down. Place a small amount of the rice mixture in the center of the leaf, then fold the sides over the filling and roll it up tightly.
  4. Repeat with the remaining grape leaves and filling mixture.
  5. Place the stuffed grape leaves in a large pot, seam side down, packing them tightly in layers.
  6. Place a few lemon slices on top of the grape leaves, then add enough water to cover the leaves.
  7. Cover the pot and cook over low heat for 1 hour, or until the rice is tender and the grape leaves are cooked through.
  8. Remove from heat and let the sarma cool slightly before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
250 per serving
Protein
15g
Carbohydrates
30g
Fat
8g

Supplies

Large pot Knife Cutting board

Tools

Lemon squeezer Tongs

Serving suggestions

Sarma is best served warm, accompanied by a dollop of yogurt or a fresh salad.

Tips & tricks

To make the rolling process easier, you can blanch the grape leaves in boiling water for a few seconds before using them.

Cost

$15