Sarmale (stuffed Cabbage Rolls)

Sarmale is a traditional dish in Romani cuisine, consisting of cabbage leaves stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, ground meat, and spices. This dish is a labor of love, often prepared for special occasions and family gatherings.

Sarmale (stuffed Cabbage Rolls)

Ingredients

  • 1 large head of cabbage
  • 1 cup uncooked rice
  • 1 lb ground pork
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup tomato juice

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. Remove and set aside to cool.
  2. In a bowl, mix together the uncooked rice, ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place a spoonful of the meat and rice mixture onto each cabbage leaf, then fold the sides in and roll up to encase the filling.
  4. Place the stuffed cabbage rolls in a large pot, seam side down. Pour the tomato juice over the rolls and add enough water to cover them.
  5. Cover the pot and simmer over low heat for 2-3 hours, until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Carbohydrates
25g
Protein
15g
Fat
20g

Supplies

Large pot Bowl Knife Cutting board

Tools

Stovetop

Serving suggestions

Serve the sarmale hot, accompanied by a dollop of sour cream and a slice of crusty bread.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, replace the ground pork with a mixture of mushrooms, rice, and onions.

Cost

Low