Discover how to make authentic Sarmale with this easy-to-follow recipe. These traditional Romanian cabbage rolls are stuffed with a savory mixture of pork, rice, and aromatic spices, then simmered to perfection. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, Sarmale offers a comforting and flavorful taste of Eastern European cuisine.

Ingredients:

- 1 large head of cabbage

- 1 lb (450g) ground pork

- 1 cup rice, uncooked

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 2 tablespoons tomato paste

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 teaspoon dried dill

- 1 egg

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 cup tomato sauce

- 2 cups water or chicken broth

- Fresh dill for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Cabbage:

  - Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head into the boiling water. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the outer leaves become pliable. Remove from water and let cool. Carefully peel off the leaves.

Make the Filling:

  - In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.

  - In a large bowl, combine ground pork, rice, cooked onions, tomato paste, paprika, thyme, dill, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Assemble the Rolls:

  - Place a spoonful of filling onto each cabbage leaf. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly.

  - Repeat until all filling and leaves are used.

Cook the Sarmale:

  - In a large pot, spread a layer of cabbage leaves on the bottom. Arrange the cabbage rolls in layers, adding a bit of tomato sauce between the layers.

  - Pour the remaining tomato sauce and water (or broth) over the rolls.

  - Cover and simmer on low heat for about 2 hours, or until the cabbage and rice are tender.

Serve:

  - Garnish with fresh dill if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

This hearty Sarmale recipe brings a taste of traditional Eastern European comfort food to your table.

Nutritional Values:

Cabbage (1 large head)

  - Calories: Approximately 230

  - Carbohydrates: 55g

  - Fiber: 22g

  - Protein: 10g

Benefits:

  - High in fiber, promoting digestion.

  - Rich in vitamins C and K, supporting immune function and bone health.

Ground Pork (1 lb / 450g)

  - Calories: Approximately 1120

  - Protein: 75g

  - Fat: 90g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

  - A good source of protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.

  - Contains B vitamins, especially thiamine, for energy metabolism.

Rice (1 cup, uncooked)

  - Calories: 680

  - Carbohydrates: 148g

  - Protein: 13g

  - Fat: 1g

Benefits:

  - Provides energy through complex carbohydrates.

  - Contains essential minerals like magnesium and phosphorus.

Onion (1, finely chopped)

  - Calories: 45

  - Carbohydrates: 11g

  - Fiber: 2g

Benefits:

  - Rich in antioxidants and supports heart health.

  - Contains quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory properties.

Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)

  - Calories: 240

  - Fat: 28g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

  - A source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which support heart health.

  - Contains antioxidants that may reduce inflammation.

Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons)

  - Calories: 30

  - Carbohydrates: 7g

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

  - Rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

  - Adds concentrated tomato flavor to dishes.

Paprika (1 teaspoon)

  - Calories: 6

  - Carbohydrates: 1.2g

Benefits:

  - Contains vitamin A and antioxidants, which support eye health and immune function.

Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon)

  - Calories: 3

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

  - Rich in antioxidants and may support respiratory health.

Dried Dill (1 teaspoon)

  - Calories: 3

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

  - Contains flavonoids that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Egg (1 large)

  - Calories: 70

  - Protein: 6g

  - Fat: 5g

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

  - High in protein and contains essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin D and choline.

Tomato Sauce (1 cup)

  - Calories: 80

  - Carbohydrates: 18g

  - Protein: 2g

  - Fat: 1g

Benefits:

  - Rich in vitamins A and C, supporting immune function and skin health.

  - Contains lycopene, a potent antioxidant.

Water or Chicken Broth (2 cups)

  - Chicken Broth: Approximately 40 calories, 2g protein

  - Water: 0 calories

Benefits:

  - Chicken Broth: Adds flavor and nutrients, such as protein and minerals, to the dish.

  - Water: Hydrates and helps cook the dish evenly.

Fresh Dill for Garnish (Optional)

  - Adds a fresh, herbal flavor and contains antioxidants.

This dish offers a balanced combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.