Slovenian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Sarma
Sarma are traditional Slovenian stuffed cabbage rolls, typically filled with a mixture of ground meat and rice, then slow-cooked in a flavorful broth, often with sauerkraut. This hearty dish is a staple in Slovenian cuisine, known for its comforting and savory taste.
๐ง Ingredients
- 1 Large head of pickled cabbage
- 500 g Ground meat (pork and beef mix)
- 2 Onions, finely chopped
- 3 Garlic cloves, minced
- 100 g Rice, uncooked
- 1 Egg
- 2 tsp Sweet paprika
- 1 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 tsp Vegeta seasoning (optional)
- 0.5 cup Parsley, chopped
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Oil
- 200 g Sauerkraut (for layering)
- 500 ml Tomato purรฉe or passata
- 1 Bay leaf
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Prepare the cabbage: Carefully remove the leaves from the pickled cabbage head. If using raw cabbage, boil it in water with a little vinegar until the leaves are pliable. Trim the thick core from each leaf.
๐ก Tip: Rinse sauerkraut leaves if they are too salty. - 2
Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, finely chopped onions, minced garlic, uncooked rice, egg, sweet paprika, tomato paste, Vegeta (if using), chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
๐ก Tip: Ensure the rice is uncooked, as it will absorb liquid and expand during cooking. - 3
Assemble the rolls: Place a cabbage leaf on a flat surface. Spoon a portion of the filling onto the wider end of the leaf. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly from the stem end.
๐ก Tip: Don't overfill the leaves to prevent them from bursting during cooking. - 4
Prepare the pot: Line the bottom of a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven with a layer of sauerkraut and some chopped cabbage leaves (if you have any reserved). This adds flavor and prevents the rolls from sticking.
๐ก Tip: Using sauerkraut as a base adds a tangy flavor to the dish. - 5
Arrange the rolls: Place the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in the pot, packing them snugly. You can arrange them in layers.
๐ก Tip: Packing them tightly helps them maintain their shape during cooking. - 6
Add the liquid: Pour the tomato purรฉe and enough water (or broth) to almost cover the cabbage rolls. Add a bay leaf.
๐ก Tip: Ensure the liquid level is sufficient to cook the rolls thoroughly. - 7
Cook the sarma: Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for at least 2 hours, or until the meat is cooked through and the cabbage is tender. Stir occasionally.
๐ก Tip: Slow and low cooking is key for tender sarma. - 8
Serve: Serve the sarma hot, often with mashed potatoes or a dollop of sour cream.
๐ก Tip: Sarma is often said to taste even better the next day, after reheating.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โIf pickled cabbage is unavailable, you can use fresh cabbage leaves blanched in boiling water with a splash of vinegar.
- โFor a richer flavor, you can add a piece of smoked pork belly or a smoked rib to the pot while simmering.
- โThe amount of sauerkraut used can be adjusted to personal preference.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Some recipes include a small amount of smoked meat (like bacon or smoked pork rib) cooked with the sarma for added flavor.
- Vegetarian versions can be made using a filling of mushrooms, rice, and vegetables.