Sarmale – Romanian Stuffed Cabbage (Soft Version)

Ingredients

• 1 large head fermented (sour) cabbage, leaves separated
• 400g minced pork (not lean)
• 150g long grain rice, par-boiled 5 min
• 1 large onion, finely diced and sautéed
• 2 tbsp tomato purée
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• Bunch fresh dill
• 400g crushed tomatoes
• Smântână to serve

Method

1. 1

   Mix pork, rice, onion, paprika, tomato purée, dill, salt, and pepper.

2. 2

   Place a tablespoon of filling on each cabbage leaf. Roll tightly, tucking in sides.

3. 3

   Line a heavy pot with remaining cabbage leaves. Arrange rolls tightly packed.

4. 4

   Pour crushed tomatoes over. Add water to just cover.

5. 5

   Simmer on very low heat for 2 hours – the slower, the better.

6. 6

   Serve hot with smântână and fresh bread (when Phase 3 allows).