Sarmale, a beloved Romanian dish, is a delightful combination of minced pork and beef, fragrant rice, and spices, all wrapped in tender cabbage leaves. This dish embodies the rich culinary heritage of Romania, making it a must-try for those seeking an authentic and flavorful experience.

Ingredients:

To prepare Sarmale, you will need the following ingredients:

1 large head of cabbage

500g ground pork

500g ground beef

1 cup rice

1 large onion, finely chopped

2 cloves of garlic, minced

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon thyme

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups tomato juice

2 bay leaves

2 cups sour cream (for serving)

Instructions:

Follow these steps to create this Romanian delight

Prepare the Cabbage Leaves:

Boil the whole cabbage head until the leaves are tender and can be easily separated. Let them cool, then remove and trim the hard center veins.

Prepare the Filling:

In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, ground beef, rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.

Assemble the Sarmale:

Take a cabbage leaf and place a spoonful of the meat and rice mixture in the center. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling and roll it up tightly.

Layer in a Pot:

Line the bottom of a large, heavy pot with cabbage leaves. Arrange the Sarmale on top, seam side down, in layers.

Cook:

Pour tomato juice over the Sarmale and add bay leaves. Cover the pot and simmer over low heat for 2-3 hours until the Sarmale are cooked through.

Serving:

Sarmale are traditionally served hot, accompanied by a generous dollop of sour cream. They make for a heartwarming and satisfying meal.

In conclusion, Sarmale is a cherished Romanian dish that reflects the country's culinary traditions. By preparing and savoring this flavorful delicacy, you can experience a taste of Romania's rich heritage.