Romanian · Romania
Cabbage-Wrapped Pork, Mushrooms, and Smoked Paprika Rolls with Broth Simmer
A variation of traditional Romanian sarmale with added mushrooms and a smoky flavor, prepared using a slow-fermented dough method for the cabbage leaves.
120 minutes6 servings

Ingredients
Method
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cabbage leaves with olive oil, and let them sit for 1 hour to soften naturally.
- In a separate bowl, mix ground pork, cooked rice, mushrooms, onion, garlic, tomato paste, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Lay a cabbage leaf flat, place a spoonful of the mixture in the center, roll it up, and secure with a toothpick.
- In a large pot, arrange the rolled cabbage in a single layer, add water or broth, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until the cabbage is tender.
- Check that the ground meat reaches 71°C (160°F) throughout before serving.