Sarma(Stuffed Cabbage Rolls)
Sarma features tender cabbage leaves stuffed with seasoned meat and rice, simmered in tomato sauce for a hearty, savory dish perfect for family gatherings and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove the core from a head of cabbage.
- Put the cabbage in a large pot of boiling water with 1 tablespoon salt and cook for 5 minutes until leaves soften.
- Meanwhile, fry garlic and chopped onion in olive oil until soft.
- Add ground beef and ground pork to the pan and fry until browned.
- Turn off heat and add seasonings and rice to the meat mixture.
- Let the mixture cool, then add eggs and mix well.
Tips & Substitutions
To make the rolling process easier, use the outer leaves of the cabbage, which are more pliable. For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with cooked lentils or mushrooms. If you want extra flavor, consider adding some smoked paprika or herbs like dill and thyme to the filling. Pairing it with a dollop of sour cream enhances the taste, similar to how it's served with Dolmathes Kima Me Avgolemono.
Serving Suggestions
Serve sarma warm with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with yogurt or sour cream for added creaminess. For a delightful experience, consider pairing it with Spinach Stew With Beef for a satisfying and hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover sarma in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. You can also microwave them, but cover them to keep moisture in.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sarma(Stuffed Cabbage Rolls) contains roughly 860 calories, with 8g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), iron (14% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1446mg per serving (63% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze stuffed cabbage rolls?
Yes, you can freeze sarma before or after cooking. To freeze before cooking, roll the cabbage and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. If cooked, allow them to cool completely before freezing in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can substitute it with crushed tomatoes or a mixture of tomato paste and water. Adding some herbs like oregano or basil can enhance the flavor, making it a perfect base for your sarma.
How long can I cook sarma in a slow cooker?
In a slow cooker, sarma can be cooked on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Ensure there’s enough liquid in the slow cooker, such as broth or water, to keep the rolls moist while they cook.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).