Romanian Cuisine: Sarmale (Stuffed Cabbage Rolls)

ground pork

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground beef

Ground turkey reduces fat content while still providing flavor.

smoked bacon

🥗Healthier: turkey bacon

💰Cheaper: salted pork

Turkey bacon offers a leaner option with a similar taste.

sour cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: plain yogurt

Greek yogurt provides creaminess with fewer calories.

cabbage

🥗Healthier: collard greens

💰Cheaper: savoy cabbage

Collard greens offer similar texture and flavor.

Prepare cabbage by blanching in boiling water until leaves are pliable, about 5 minutes.

Mix ground pork, rice, chopped onion, tomato paste, dill, thyme, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.

Take a cabbage leaf and place a spoonful of the meat mixture at the base.

Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly to enclose.

Repeat until all filling is used, setting aside any leftover cabbage leaves.

Line the bottom of a large pot with leftover cabbage leaves and some smoked bacon.

Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the pot, layering as necessary.

Add bay leaves and cover with water, ensuring rolls are submerged.

Simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, adding water as needed.

Once cooked, remove from heat and let rest for 30 minutes before serving.

Serve warm with sour cream and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens