Sarma (assyrian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls)

Sarma is a traditional Assyrian dish that consists of delicious cabbage rolls stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, ground meat, and aromatic spices. This dish is a labor of love, but the end result is well worth the effort. It's perfect for a special occasion or a comforting family meal.

Sarma (assyrian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls)

Ingredients

  • 1 large head of cabbage
  • 1 cup of uncooked rice
  • 1 pound of ground beef or lamb
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon of ground allspice
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups of tomato sauce
  • 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the outer leaves of the cabbage and blanch them in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they are pliable. Remove and set aside to cool.
  2. In a bowl, combine the uncooked rice, ground meat, onion, garlic, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
  3. Place a spoonful of the meat and rice mixture onto each cabbage leaf and roll it up, tucking in the sides as you go.
  4. Place the stuffed cabbage rolls seam side down in a large pot. Pour the tomato sauce and broth over the rolls.
  5. Cover the pot and simmer over low heat for 1.5-2 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
Carbohydrates
25g
Protein
15g
Fat
15g

Supplies

Large pot Bowl Knife Cutting board

Tools

Stove Spoon Cooking pot with lid

Serving suggestions

Serve the sarma hot, garnished with a dollop of yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It pairs well with a side of tabbouleh salad and warm pita bread.

Tips & tricks

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

Cost

$15