Cabbage Rolls Recipe - Easy to Follow, Step by Step - Serbian Sarma

ground meat

🥗Healthier: lean turkey

💰Cheaper: ground pork

Turkey reduces fat content while pork is often less expensive.

sour cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: cream cheese

Greek yogurt lowers calories and adds creaminess.

smoked meat

🥗Healthier: smoked tofu

💰Cheaper: bacon

Tofu is plant-based and lowers cholesterol.

rice

🥗Healthier: quinoa

💰Cheaper: bulgur

Quinoa is higher in protein and fiber.

Prepare cabbage by removing the core and blanching the leaves in boiling water until pliable, about 5 minutes.

In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onion and garlic until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

In a bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper; mix well.

Lay a cabbage leaf flat and place a spoonful of the meat mixture at the base; roll tightly, tucking in the sides to secure.

Repeat with remaining leaves and filling until all are rolled.

In a large pot, layer some chopped cabbage and smoked meat at the bottom to prevent sticking.

Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the pot, packing them tightly together.

Add bay leaves, thyme, and enough water to cover the rolls.

Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then cover and cook on low for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the meat is cooked through.

Check occasionally, adding more water if necessary to keep the rolls submerged.

Once cooked, serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of parsley.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens