Romanian Sarmale

Hey foodies, it's Gemma here! Today, I'm thrilled to share with you a classic Romanian dish that holds a special place in my heart - Sarmale. This traditional dish consists of cabbage leaves stuffed with a hearty mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices, simmered to perfection. Sarmale is a labor of love for many Romanian families, often enjoyed during celebrations and holidays.

The origins of Sarmale can be traced back to the Ottoman Empire, where the technique of stuffing vegetables was popularized. Over the years, the recipe made its way to Romania and became a beloved staple in the country's cuisine. Each family has its own variation of Sarmale, adding a unique touch to this comforting dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cabbage
• 500g ground pork
• 250g rice
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can of tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable broth
• Sour cream, for serving

Instructions:

1. Core the cabbage and carefully remove the leaves. Blanch the leaves in boiling water to soften them. Set aside.
2. In a bowl, mix the ground pork, rice, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture onto a cabbage leaf and roll it up, tucking in the sides.
4. Layer the stuffed cabbage rolls in a large pot, seam side down.
5. Pour the tomato sauce and vegetable broth over the cabbage rolls. Add more water if needed to cover the rolls.
6. Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the cabbage and filling are cooked through.
7. Serve the Sarmale hot with a dollop of sour cream on top. Enjoy!

Give this authentic Romanian Sarmale recipe a try and savor the rich flavors of Eastern European cuisine. It's a dish that brings people together and warms the soul. Until next time, happy cooking!