Embark on a delectable journey to the Balkans with our Sarma recipe. Sarma, a beloved Balkan dish, features tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a flavorful mixture of ground meats and rice, all bathed in a rich tomato sauce. This dish is a true representation of Balkan cuisine, offering a taste of comfort and tradition.

Ingredients:

To create these mouthwatering Sarma, you'll need the following ingredients:

1 large head of cabbage

1 lb (450g) ground beef

1/2 lb (225g) ground pork

1 cup rice

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves of garlic, minced 1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Salt and black pepper to taste

2 cups tomato sauce

2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Sour cream for serving (optional)

Instructions:

Follow these steps to create your Sarma masterpiece:

Prepare the Cabbage Leaves:

Carefully remove the cabbage leaves, blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes until they're soft, and then set them aside.

Prepare the Filling:

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients thoroughly.

Fill and Roll the Cabbage Leaves:

Place a spoonful of the meat and rice mixture on each cabbage leaf. Roll the leaves to create compact rolls, tucking in the sides to seal the filling.

Cook the Sarma:

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil. Arrange the Sarma rolls in the pot. Pour the tomato sauce and chicken or vegetable broth over the Sarma. Cover and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the rice is cooked and the flavors meld.

Serving:

Sarma is best served hot, with a dollop of sour cream if desired. It's a comforting and hearty dish that pairs well with Balkan bread or a side salad.

In conclusion, Sarma is a heartwarming representation of Balkan cuisine. The combination of tender cabbage leaves and a flavorful meat and rice filling makes it a culinary delight that brings comfort and tradition to your table.