Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (bulgarian Banquet: Sarmi)

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, known as Sarmi, are a traditional Bulgarian dish that is perfect for a hearty and flavorful meal. These rolls are filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices, then simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This recipe is a staple at Bulgarian banquets and family gatherings, and it's sure to become a favorite in your home as well.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Main Course Bulgarian Bulgarian Cuisine Cabbage Rolls Stuffed Rolls
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (bulgarian Banquet: Sarmi)

Ingredients

  • 1 large head of cabbage
  • 1 pound ground meat (beef, pork, or a mixture)
  • 1 cup uncooked rice
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head in the boiling water. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the outer leaves are softened. Remove the cabbage from the water and carefully peel off the softened leaves. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, uncooked rice, onion, garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
  3. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture onto the center of each cabbage leaf. Roll the leaf around the filling, tucking in the sides as you roll, to form a tight roll.
  4. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Place the cabbage rolls seam side down in the pot. Pour the tomato sauce and broth over the rolls. Cover and simmer for 1 hour, or until the rice is fully cooked and the cabbage is tender.
  5. Serve the stuffed cabbage rolls hot, spooning the tomato sauce from the pot over the top.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Carbohydrates
25g
Protein
20g
Fat
18g

Supplies

Large pot Knife Bowl Large pot or Dutch oven

Tools

Cutting board Wooden spoon

Serving suggestions

Serve the stuffed cabbage rolls with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. They pair perfectly with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground meat with a mixture of cooked rice, sautéed mushrooms, and finely chopped vegetables.

Cost

$15