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Serbian Sarma (Stuffed Cabbage Rolls)

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Traditional Serbian-style sauerkraut cabbage rolls filled with savory ground meat, rice, and smoked meat, slow-cooked for a rich, comforting Balkan dish.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1–2 fermented cabbage heads or ~20 large sauerkraut leaves
  • 1 kg ground meat (beef, pork, or mix)
  • 300 g smoked bacon or other smoked meat, chopped
  • 2 large onions, finely diced
  • 100 g white rice
  • 2 tbsp animal fat or vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper
  • 2 tsp ground sweet paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tsp crushed red pepper (optional)
  • 3 cups water or light stock (for braising)
  • (Optional for fermentation):
  • 10–20 kg old-fashioned white cabbage heads
  • 1 kg sea salt
  • Water (enough to submerge cabbage heads)
  • Fresh horseradish (optional)

Instructions

  1. If fermenting cabbage: Remove outer leaves and core each head. Rub 1 tsp salt into each core cavity.
  2. Place cabbages in a fermentation barrel, core side up. Add salt and water to cover. Add horseradish if using.
  3. Weigh down cabbages with a lid and heavy stone. Store in a cool, dark place for 3–4 weeks until sour and translucent.
  4. To prepare sarma: Sauté onions in fat or oil until golden. Add ground meat and cook until browned.
  5. Add rice, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Cook for 2–3 minutes to combine.
  6. Separate cabbage leaves and trim thick veins.
  7. Place 1–2 tbsp filling on each leaf and roll tightly, tucking in sides.
  8. Line a deep pot with leftover cabbage and some smoked meat.
  9. Layer sarma rolls seam-side down in circular rows, tucking in remaining smoked meat.
  10. Cover with cabbage leaves. Pour in water or stock to cover. Weigh down with a heat-safe plate.
  11. Simmer on low for 2–3 hours, adding water if necessary to prevent drying.

Notes

  • Use store-bought sauerkraut leaves to save time.
  • Fermenting your own cabbage yields a more authentic flavor.
  • Can be made in advance and reheated – it tastes even better the next day.
  • Serve with mashed potatoes, sour cream, or crusty bread.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/serbian-sarma-stuffed-cabbage-rolls/