Sarma Recipe

About this recipe

Sarma is a unique fusion dish inspired by the classic Balkan stuffed cabbage rolls, reimagined with bold Indian spices and flavors. It combines tender cabbage leaves filled with a spiced rice and meat mixture, simmered in an aromatic tomato gravy for a wholesome, hearty dinner.

Ingredients

• 100 g Coriander Leaves
• 1 pc (approx. 500 g to 800 g) Cabbage
• 500 g Tomato - Hybrid
• 1 kg Basmati Rice
• 500 g Onion
• 100 g Garlic
• loose Ginger
• 250g Green Chilli
• 50 Grms Garam Masala Handmade Spices 50 Grms
• 20 g Turmeric Powder
• - Coriander Powder
• 100 g Salt

Instructions

1. 1. Carefully separate 8 large cabbage leaves, blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes until soft, then set aside to cool.
2. 2. In a mixing bowl, combine minced lamb or chicken (250 g), cooked basmati rice (1 cup), finely chopped onion (1 medium), minced garlic (2 cloves), grated ginger (1 tsp), turmeric powder (1/2 tsp), garam masala (1 tsp), red chili powder (1/2 tsp), salt (to taste), and chopped cilantro (2 tbsp). Mix well.
3. 3. Take one cabbage leaf at a time, place 2 tablespoons of the meat and rice mixture in the center, fold the sides, and roll tightly. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
4. 4. Heat oil (2 tbsp) in a deep pan. Add cumin seeds (1 tsp) and let them splutter. Stir in finely chopped onion (1 medium) and sauté until golden brown.
5. 5. Add minced garlic (2 cloves), grated ginger (1 tsp), and finely chopped green chili (1 small). Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
6. 6. Add pureed tomatoes (1 cup), turmeric powder (1/2 tsp), ground coriander (1 tsp), red chili powder (1/2 tsp), and salt (to taste). Cook the mixture on medium heat until the oil separates, about 8 minutes.
7. 7. Gently place the rolled cabbage leaves seam-side down into the tomato gravy. Pour 1/2 cup of water, cover the pan, and let the Sarma simmer on low heat for 20 minutes until the flavors meld and the cabbage is tender.
8. 8. Carefully remove the Sarma rolls from the pan and serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Optionally, pair with yogurt or naan.