Sarma
Montenegrin Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
A comforting and traditional dish, Sarma consists of pickled cabbage leaves generously filled with a savory mixture of ground meat (often pork and beef), rice, and seasoned with paprika and other spices. Slow-cooked to perfection, it's a staple in Montenegrin households, especially during colder months and holidays.
๐ง Ingredients
- 1 large (approx. 2 kg) Whole sour cabbage head(reserve outer leaves and core)
- 700 g Ground pork
- 300 g Ground beef
- 150 g Rice(rinsed)
- 2 medium Onions(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 200 g Smoked bacon or ribs(chopped (optional, for added flavor))
- 2 tsp Sweet paprika
- 1/2 tsp Hot paprika(or to taste)
- 1.5 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 1 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- enough to cover Water or broth
- 2 tbsp Flour(for roux (optional))
- 2 tbsp Lard or oil(for roux (optional))
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Prepare the cabbage: Carefully remove the outer leaves of the sour cabbage head. Reserve a few whole outer leaves and the core. Core the remaining cabbage and separate the leaves. If the leaves are very large, cut them in half. Rinse the leaves under cold water if they are too sour or salty. Chop the reserved core and any small leftover pieces of cabbage.
- 2
Make the filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, ground beef, rinsed rice, chopped onions, minced garlic, chopped smoked bacon (if using), sweet paprika, hot paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly with your hands until well combined.
- 3
Assemble the rolls: Lay a cabbage leaf flat. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling near the stem end. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the stem end to create a neat roll. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
- 4
Layer the pot: Place the reserved whole cabbage leaves and chopped cabbage core at the bottom of a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to prevent the rolls from sticking. Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls snugly on top, seam-side down. If using smoked ribs or ham hocks, place them among the rolls.
- 5
Add liquid and cook: Stir the tomato paste into about 1-2 cups of water or broth. Pour this mixture over the cabbage rolls, adding enough water or broth to almost cover them. Place a small plate on top of the rolls to keep them submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for at least 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is cooked through and the cabbage is very tender.
- 6
Make the roux (optional): About 15-20 minutes before serving, heat lard or oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook until lightly golden. Stir in a pinch of sweet paprika (be careful not to burn it). Ladle a few spoonfuls of the cooking liquid from the sarma pot into the roux and stir to combine. Pour this mixture back into the sarma pot and stir gently.
- 7
Serve: Let the sarma rest for about 15-20 minutes after cooking before serving. Serve hot, with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt if desired.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โThe quality of the sour cabbage is crucial for the final flavor.
- โDon't overfill the cabbage leaves, as the filling will expand during cooking.
- โSlow and low cooking is key to tender cabbage and well-cooked filling.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Some recipes include a bit of sauerkraut juice in the cooking liquid for extra tang.
- Grape leaves can be used as an alternative to cabbage leaves.
- A vegetarian version can be made using a filling of rice, mushrooms, and vegetables.