Description
Sarmale is a traditional Romanian dish made of cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of pork, rice, and spices, often served during festive occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 500g ground pork
- 100g rice
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 liter water or broth
Instructions
- Boil the cabbage head in salted water until the leaves are soft and pliable. Remove and let cool.
- In a pan, heat the oil and sauté the onion until translucent. Add the rice and cook for a few minutes.
- In a bowl, mix the ground pork, cooked rice and onion, tomato paste, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Carefully separate the cabbage leaves and place a spoonful of the pork mixture onto each leaf. Roll tightly and tuck in the sides to secure.
- Place the rolls in a large pot, layering them tightly. Pour water or broth over the rolls until covered.
- Simmer on low heat for about 2 hours, until the rolls are tender and fully cooked.
- Serve hot, optionally with sour cream or polenta.
Notes
- For a more authentic taste, use smoked bacon or ham in the filling.
- Sarmale can be made in advance and taste even better the next day.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Romanian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg