World Flavors Cookbook

Sarmale (Cabbage Rolls)

Name: Sarmale (Cabbage Rolls)
Cook time: 180 min
Cuisine: Romania
Ingredients: 1 large head of sour cabbage (sauerkraut) or fresh cabbage; 500g ground pork; 500g ground beef; 100g rice; 2 large onions, finely chopped; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 200g smoked bacon or ribs; Dill, thyme, bay leaves; Salt and pepper; Sour cream for serving

Romania's national dish—tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a savory mix of minced meat, rice, and spices, slow-braised to perfection.

Cuisine: Romania

Ingredients

1 large head of sour cabbage (sauerkraut) or fresh cabbage
500g ground pork
500g ground beef
100g rice
2 large onions, finely chopped
2 tbsp tomato paste
200g smoked bacon or ribs
Dill, thyme, bay leaves
Salt and pepper
Sour cream for serving

Instructions

1. Sauté onions until translucent, then add rice and cook for 2 minutes. 2. Mix the meat with the onion-rice mixture, salt, pepper, and herbs. 3. Prepare cabbage leaves (blanch fresh ones in vinegar water). 4. Place a spoonful of meat on each leaf and roll tightly, tucking in the ends. 5. In a large pot, layer chopped cabbage, smoked meat, and the rolls. 6. Add tomato paste and water to cover. 7. Simmer on low heat for 3-4 hours. 8. Serve hot with mămăligă and a dollop of sour cream.