Traditional Romanian Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Experience the delightful flavors of Romania with these comforting cabbage rolls, filled with seasoned meat and rice. These rolls are not just a meal; they represent a warm, homely dish that brings family and friends together, perfect for gatherings or cozy weeknights.

Imagine tender cabbage leaves gently wrapped around a hearty mixture of ground meat and rice, simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Each bite is a burst of flavor that’s both satisfying and inviting, making them a go-to dish for any occasion.

Satisfying and Flavorful Cabbage Rolls

These Romanian cabbage rolls, or ‘sarmale’, are a wholesome dish featuring savory minced meat and rice, enveloped in tender cabbage leaves. Cooked slowly in a tangy tomato sauce, they offer a comforting taste that’s both hearty and delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 large head of pickled cabbage (or fresh cabbage, blanched)
• 1 lb ground pork (or beef, or a mix)
• 1 cup rice, rinsed
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups tomato juice or sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Fresh dill for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage: If using fresh cabbage, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully peel the leaves from the head of cabbage and blanche them in boiling water until pliable. If using pickled cabbage, rinse and separate the leaves.
2. Make the Filling: In a pan, heat oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, rinsed rice, sautéed onion, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Assemble the Rolls: Lay a cabbage leaf flat, place a generous spoonful of the meat mixture at the base, fold in the sides, and roll up tightly. Repeat until all filling is used.
4. Cook the Rolls: Place the rolls seam-side down in a large pot. Pour the tomato juice or sauce over the rolls, adding enough to cover them. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until the rice and meat are cooked through.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh dill if desired, and serve warm alongside crusty bread or sour cream.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 6 rolls
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

For more unique internationally-inspired comfort foods to chase away the holiday blues, visit our article, 15 Cozy Garden-Inspired Winter Comfort Foods from Around the World.

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