If you’re looking for a delicious and authentic Turkish dish, look no further than Turkish stuffed cabbage, also known as “Lahana Sarma”. This culinary masterpiece combines flavors and traditional techniques from Turkish cuisine. Let’s dive into the richness and authenticity of this dish.

The “Lahana Sarma” is the perfect manifestation of Turkey’s rich culinary tradition, steeped in centuries of history and culture. This stuffed cabbage recipe celebrates fresh ingredients and culinary wisdom passed down from generation to generation.

To prepare the “Lahana Sarma”, start by blanching the cabbage leaves to make them tender and pliable for wrapping. A carefully crafted mixture of minced meat, rice, and a variety of spices and herbs is prepared and delicately placed on each cabbage leaf. The leaves are then skillfully rolled into compact and flavorful parcels.

Here’s a recipe for Turkish stuffed cabbage, also known as “Lahana Sarma”:

Ingredients:

• 1 large cabbage

• 500g minced meat (lamb, beef, or a mix)

• 1 cup of rice

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 3 tomatoes, peeled and chopped

• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste

• 1/2 cup of fresh parsley, chopped

• 1/4 cup of fresh mint, chopped

• 1 tablespoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for spiciness)

• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon of sweet red pepper or paprika

• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth

• Lemon juice for serving

• Natural yogurt for serving

Preparation:

• Boil a large pot of water and blanch the whole cabbage for a few minutes until the outer leaves are tender and can be easily separated. Remove the cabbage from the water and let it cool.

• Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden and translucent.

• Add the minced meat to the skillet and cook until browned.

• Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, rice, parsley, mint, red pepper flakes (if using), cumin, sweet red pepper, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few more minutes, then remove from heat and let it cool.

• Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

• Once the cabbage is cool enough to handle, carefully remove the outer leaves one by one, trying to keep them intact. Trim the thick stem of each leaf to make them easier to roll.

• Place a portion of the meat and rice mixture in the center of each cabbage leaf and roll it up, folding the ends inward to secure the filling.

• In a large pot, layer the stuffed cabbage leaves tightly. Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the leaves until they are covered.

• Cover the pot and cook over medium-low heat for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is well cooked.

• Serve the hot Turkish stuffed cabbage leaves, drizzled with lemon juice and accompanied by natural yogurt. Enjoy this delicious traditional Turkish dish!

Stuffed cabbage leaves are perfect for a hearty and comforting meal, so why not try your hand at making this Turkish delight?

Bonus Recipe: Chicken Rolls with Cheese and Ham

Are you in the mood for a tasty and easy-to-make recipe? Look no further! These chicken rolls with cheese and ham are sure to satisfy your cravings. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can whip up a delicious meal that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:

• 4 pieces of chicken breast

• Cooked ham or turkey breast slices

• Slices of your favorite cheese

• Oregano

• Pepper

• White wine

• Extra virgin olive oil

• 2-3 potatoes

• 1 onion

• Salt

Preparation:

1. Flatten the chicken breasts (you can ask the butcher to do this for you if you don’t know how).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place a slice of ham and two slices of cheese on top of each breast.
3. Roll up the chicken breasts and secure them with toothpicks. Season with a little more salt and pepper and set aside on a plate.
4. Peel and rinse the potatoes, then slice them into half-centimeter rounds. Cut the onion into rings and place everything in a heat-resistant dish. Season with salt.
5. Place the rolled chicken breasts on top of the bed of potatoes and onions. Drizzle with white wine and olive oil.
6. Bake in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 40 minutes or until golden brown to your liking.
7. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious chicken rolls!

This recipe is perfect for a hearty dinner or a special occasion. The combination of tender chicken, melted cheese, and savory ham is simply irresistible. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!