Sarma u Kiselom Kupusu (Serbian Winter Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Smoked Paprika) – Authentic Serbia Recipe

Ingredients for Sarma u Kiselom Kupusu (Serbian Winter Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Smoked Paprika) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) sour cabbage leaves stuffed with spiced beef/pork and rice, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups slow-simmered paprika broth, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup warm cornbread (proja)
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with sweet paprika
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Serbia seasoning (garlic, bay leaf, peppercorns)
• 2.5 tbsp traditional cooking oil, sea salt, cracked black pepper, and fresh citrus or herbs

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Finely chop or mash sour cabbage leaves stuffed with spiced beef/pork and rice and mix in a bowl with sweet paprika, garlic, bay leaf, peppercorns, and a pinch of salt to form a savory filling.
2. Portion or fold the seasoned mixture with slow-simmered paprika broth into neat traditional parcels, dumplings, or patties.
3. Heat a heavy skillet with oil over medium heat or bring a steamer/broth pot to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook the parcels for 12–15 minutes until tender and cooked through (crisping the bottoms in the skillet if desired).
5. Spoon warm cornbread (proja) generously over the top and serve warm.