Discover the authentic taste of Romanian cuisine with our recipe for Sărmăluțe în Foi de Viță—savory grape leaf rolls stuffed with a flavorful mixture of meat and rice. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, these tender and aromatic rolls are a culinary delight. Follow our step-by-step guide to prepare this traditional dish and impress your loved ones with a taste of Romania.

Ingredients:

- Grape leaves: 1 jar (about 40-50 leaves), rinsed and blanched

- Ground meat: 500g (pork, beef, or a mix)

- Rice: 100g, rinsed

- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped

- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced

- Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons

- Paprika: 1 teaspoon

- Salt: to taste

- Black pepper: to taste

- Dill: 2 tablespoons, chopped

- Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped

- Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons

- Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons

- Water: 500ml

Instructions:

Prepare the Filling:

  - In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, rice, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, paprika, salt, pepper, dill, and parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Prepare the Grape Leaves:

  - If using preserved grape leaves, rinse them well under cold water and blanch in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside. If using fresh grape leaves, blanch in boiling water for 1-2 minutes to soften.

Assemble the Rolls:

  - Place a grape leaf on a flat surface, vein side up. Spoon a small amount of the meat mixture onto the center of the leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling and roll up tightly, securing the ends.

Cook the Rolls:

  - Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Arrange the rolls seam side down in the pot. Add enough water to cover the rolls, and sprinkle with lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the meat and rice are cooked through and tender.

Serve:

  - Let the Sărmăluțe cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature with a side of yogurt or sour cream.

This traditional Romanian dish is sure to be a hit at your next meal. Enjoy the rich flavors and aromatic herbs in each bite!

Nutritional Values

Grape Leaves (1 jar, about 40-50 leaves, rinsed and blanched)

  - Calories: Approximately 50

  - Carbohydrates: 10 g

  - Protein: 3 g

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Fiber: 4 g

Benefits:

  - Low in calories and rich in dietary fiber, aiding digestion.

  - Contains vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals like calcium and iron.

Ground Meat (500g, pork, beef, or a mix)

  - Calories: Approximately 1,000-1,200 (varies by fat content)

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g

  - Protein: 50-60 g

  - Fat: 80-100 g

Benefits:

  - High in protein, which supports muscle health and repair.

  - Provides essential nutrients like B vitamins, iron, and zinc.

Rice (100g, rinsed)

  - Calories: Approximately 365

  - Carbohydrates: 80 g

  - Protein: 7 g

  - Fat: 0.6 g

Benefits:

  - Provides a source of energy through carbohydrates.

  - Contains small amounts of essential vitamins and minerals.

Large Onion (1, finely chopped)

  - Calories: Approximately 45

  - Carbohydrates: 11 g

  - Protein: 1 g

  - Fat: 0.1 g

Benefits:

  - Rich in antioxidants, including quercetin, which may reduce inflammation.

  - Supports heart health and adds flavor with minimal calories.

Garlic Cloves (2, minced)

  - Calories: Approximately 8

  - Carbohydrates: 2 g

  - Protein: 0.4 g

  - Fat: 0 g

Benefits:

  - Known for its potential antibacterial and antiviral properties.

  - Supports cardiovascular health and boosts the immune system.

Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons)

  - Calories: Approximately 30

  - Carbohydrates: 7 g

  - Protein: 1 g

  - Fat: 0.5 g

Benefits:

  - Rich in vitamins C and K, and lycopene (an antioxidant).

  - Adds depth and richness to dishes.

Paprika (1 teaspoon)

  - Calories: Approximately 6

  - Carbohydrates: 1 g

  - Protein: 0.3 g

  - Fat: 0.3 g

Benefits:

  - Adds flavor and color.

  - Contains antioxidants and may aid in digestion.

Salt (to taste)

  - Sodium: Approximately 2,300 mg per teaspoon

Benefits:

  - Enhances flavor but should be used in moderation due to high sodium content.

Black Pepper (to taste)

  - Calories: Approximately 6 per teaspoon

  - Carbohydrates: 1 g

  - Protein: 0.3 g

  - Fat: 0.3 g

Benefits:

  - Adds spice and complexity.

  - Contains piperine, which may aid in digestion and have antioxidant effects.

Dill (2 tablespoons, chopped)

  - Calories: Approximately 6

  - Carbohydrates: 1 g

  - Protein: 0.3 g

  - Fat: 0 g

Benefits:

  - Adds a fresh flavor.

  - Contains vitamins A and C, and has potential digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped)

  - Calories: Approximately 5

  - Carbohydrates: 1 g

  - Protein: 0.5 g

  - Fat: 0 g

Benefits:

  - Adds freshness and flavor.

  - Contains vitamins A, C, and K, and provides antioxidants.

Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons)

  - Calories: Approximately 240

  - Fat: 27 g

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g

  - Protein: 0 g

Benefits:

  - Provides essential fatty acids and aids in cooking.

  - Opt for heart-healthy oils like olive oil when possible.

Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons)

  - Calories: Approximately 8

  - Carbohydrates: 2 g

  - Protein: 0.1 g

  - Fat: 0 g

Benefits:

  - Adds brightness and acidity.

  - Provides vitamin C and may support digestion and immune health.

Water (500ml)

  - Calories: 0

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g

  - Protein: 0 g

  - Fat: 0 g

Benefits:

  - Essential for hydration and cooking.