Name: Quick Sarmale with Tomato-Based Sauce
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Romanian
Ingredients: 12 large grape leaves; 1 lb ground pork; 1/2 lb ground beef; 1 cup sauerkraut; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp caraway seeds; 2 cups tomato sauce; 1 tbsp olive oil; salt and pepper to taste

A faster version of the traditional Romanian sarmale, using a tomato-based sauce for a lighter flavor.

Method

In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the grape leaves and cook for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the pork, beef, sauerkraut, onion, garlic, and caraway seeds. Mix well.
Lay a grape leaf on a flat surface, with the stem end facing you. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture in the center and roll it up tightly.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the rolled leaves and cook for 2 minutes on each side.
Pour the tomato sauce over the leaves and simmer for 20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
Check that the ground meat reaches 71°C (160°F) throughout before serving.