Bulgarian Zelevi Sarmi, or stuffed cabbage leaves, is a beloved traditional dish filled with a hearty combination of rice, minced meat, and fresh herbs. Slowly simmered in a rich tomato sauce, these tender cabbage rolls offer a comforting and satisfying meal, especially enjoyed during the colder months.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Ingredients (Serves Four People)
- 12 large cabbage leaves (approximately 600g)
- 200g uncooked white rice
- 300g minced meat (pork, beef, or a combination)
- 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped (100g)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 500ml tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 500ml water or vegetable broth for cooking
Note: 1 tablespoon is approximately 15 ml, and a teaspoon is approximately 5 ml.
Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Blanch the cabbage leaves for 3-4 minutes until softened, then drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
In a large saucepan, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced meat and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Stir in the rice, minced garlic, parsley, dill, mint, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to combine.
Step 3: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls
To assemble the cabbage rolls, place a heaping tablespoon of the rice and meat mixture near the bottom of a cabbage leaf. Fold the bottom edge over the filling, fold in the sides, and roll tightly to form a small parcel. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
Step 4: Cook the Sarmi
Combine the tomato sauce and water or vegetable broth in a large, deep saucepan or Dutch oven. Arrange the stuffed cabbage leaves seam-side down in the sauce, placing them close together in a single layer. If needed, create a second layer on top. Bring the liquid to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 hour 30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the cabbage leaves are tender.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the stuffed cabbage leaves from the heat and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve hot, spooning the rich tomato sauce over the top.
Tips and Tricks
- Trimming Cabbage Leaves: If the cabbage leaves are thick or tough, carefully trim away the thick central ribs before blanching for easier rolling.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute minced meat with an equal amount of cooked mushrooms or grated zucchini.
- Slow-cooker option: Cook the stuffed cabbage leaves slowly on low for 6-8 hours or until tender.
Serving Suggestions
- Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread to mop up the rich tomato sauce.
- Yogurt Sauce: Bulgarian yogurt with garlic and fresh herbs perfectly complements the sarmi.
Wine Pairing
Enjoy this dish with a robust Bulgarian red wine like Mavrud or a fruity Merlot, which will complement the hearty flavors of the meat and tomato sauce.
Nutritional Information (Per serving)
Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 20g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 7g
Sodium: 700 mg
Storage Suggestions
- Refrigeration: Store leftover stuffed cabbage leaves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the rolls in a saucepan with a splash of water or broth, covered, over low heat until warmed through.
About the Zelevi Sarmi Dish
Zelevi Sarmi (stuffed cabbage leaves) is a popular dish in Bulgarian cuisine, often enjoyed during the colder months or special occasions. The tender cabbage leaves, filled with rice and seasoned minced meat, create a comforting dish rich in flavor and steeped in tradition.
Cultural Context
Stuffed cabbage leaves, or зелеви сърми, are a beloved dish across the Balkans, with each country adding its twist. In Bulgaria, the Zelevi Sarmi dish is often made with either fresh or pickled cabbage leaves and cooked with flavorful herbs like parsley, dill, and mint. This dish is particularly enjoyed during holidays and wintertime, symbolizing warmth, nourishment, and the importance of gathering with loved ones.
