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A traditional Balkan dish, Sarma, featuring cabbage rolls filled with ground meat and rice, set against a rustic blurred kitchen background.

Savoring Tradition: A Sarma Recipe for Every Occasion

Sarma, a traditional dish, made with cabbage or grape leaves wrapped around a savory meat and rice filling, slow-cooked for rich flavors. Perfect for festive gatherings and comfort food cravings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Balkan
Servings 6 rolls
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Blanching Pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board

Ingredients
  

For the Leaves

  • 1 large cabbage or 30-40 grape leaves

For the Filling

  • 1 lb ground pork
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup rice
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt

For Cooking

  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 tbsp vinegar (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Blanch cabbage leaves or rinse grape leaves in warm water to soften.
  • In a bowl, mix ground pork, ground beef, rice, onion, garlic, paprika, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  • Take a leaf, place a spoonful of filling, and roll tightly. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
  • Layer the rolls in a large pot, placing bay leaves between layers.
  • Pour beef broth and tomato sauce over the sarma, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 2 hours.
  • Serve hot, with an optional splash of vinegar for added acidity.

Notes

If using grape leaves, ensure they are rinsed well to remove excess brine. Sarma tastes even better the next day, making it a great dish to prepare in advance.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 25gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 810mgPotassium: 630mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 3.5mg
Keyword Cabbage Rolls, Comfort Food, Sarma
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