Sarmale (transylvanian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls)

Sarmale is a traditional Romanian dish consisting of cabbage rolls stuffed with a flavorful mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices. This dish is a staple at special occasions and holidays, and it's a labor of love that brings families together in the kitchen.

Sarmale (transylvanian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls)

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Core the cabbage and carefully remove the leaves, blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes, then set aside to cool.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground pork, rice, onion, garlic, tomato paste, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture onto each cabbage leaf, then roll them up, tucking in the sides.
  4. Layer the cabbage rolls in a large pot, seam side down, then pour tomato juice over them.
  5. Cover and simmer on 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
20g
Fat
18g

Supplies

Large pot Sharp knife Cutting board

Tools

Tongs Wooden spoon

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, substitute the ground pork with a mixture of mushrooms, rice, and spices.

Cost

$15