Sarmi v Zelevi Lista (Bulgarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Rice, Walnuts & Savory) – Authentic Bulgaria Recipe
Cozy Bulgarian winter hearth classic of cabbage rolls simmered in a fragrant paprika and herb broth.
- Country of Origin
- 🇧🇬 Bulgaria (Eastern Europe, Europe)
- Dietary Profile
- vegan
- Prep Time
- 25 min
- Cook Time
- 20 min
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Signature Staples
- Tender cabbage leaves, Short-grain rice with caramelized onions and walnuts, Paprika-tomato broth, Chubritsa (summer savory), Sweet paprika
Ingredients for Sarmi v Zelevi Lista (Bulgarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Rice, Walnuts & Savory) (4 Servings)
- 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) tender cabbage leaves, prepped into bite-sized pieces
- 1.5 cups short-grain rice with caramelized onions and walnuts, washed and trimmed
- 1 cup paprika-tomato broth
- 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with chubritsa (summer savory)
- 1.5 tbsp traditional Bulgaria seasoning (sweet paprika, spearmint, black pepper)
- 2.5 tbsp traditional cooking oil, sea salt, cracked black pepper, and fresh citrus or herbs
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Finely chop or mash tender cabbage leaves and mix in a bowl with chubritsa (summer savory), sweet paprika, spearmint, black pepper, and a pinch of salt to form a savory filling.
- Portion or fold the seasoned mixture with short-grain rice with caramelized onions and walnuts into neat traditional parcels, dumplings, or patties.
- Heat a heavy skillet with oil over medium heat or bring a steamer/broth pot to a gentle simmer.
- Cook the parcels for 12–15 minutes until tender and cooked through (crisping the bottoms in the skillet if desired).
- Spoon paprika-tomato broth generously over the top and serve warm.