Keto Sarmale (Romanian Cabbage Rolls)

Discover the perfect low-carb twist on a beloved Eastern European classic with this recipe for Keto Sarmale (Romanian Cabbage Rolls). These hearty rolls are made by wrapping a savory blend of ground pork, ground beef, and cauliflower rice in tender cabbage leaves, then slow-simmering them in a rich, tangy tomato sauce. Seasoned with paprika, thyme, and fresh dill, these keto-friendly cabbage rolls deliver a burst of traditional flavors while keeping carbs to a minimum. Ideal for meal prep or a comforting family dinner, this wholesome dish is as satisfying as it is nutritious. Serve them steaming hot and impress your guests with this classic Romanian dish reimagined for a low-carb lifestyle!

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:45 mins

Cook Time:120 mins

Total Time:165 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 1 head Large cabbage
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 medium, chopped Onion
• 3 minced Garlic cloves
• 500 grams Ground pork
• 500 grams Ground beef
• 200 grams Cauliflower rice
• 1 teaspoon Paprika
• 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 3 tablespoons Tomato paste
• 400 grams Low-carb tomato sauce
• 500 milliliters Water
• 2 Bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons, chopped Fresh dill

Directions

Step 1

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage head.

Step 2

Place the cabbage in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes, until the outer leaves become tender and easy to remove. Repeat until all the leaves are blanched.

Step 3

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and saute for 3-4 minutes until translucent.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute.

Step 5

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, ground beef, cooked onions and garlic, cauliflower rice, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

Step 6

Lay a cabbage leaf on a flat surface and place about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture in the center. Fold in the sides and roll the leaf to enclose the filling.

Step 7

Repeat the process with remaining cabbage leaves and meat mixture.

Step 8

In the same large skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.

Step 9

Stir in the low-carb tomato sauce and water, mixing until well combined.

Step 10

Arrange the cabbage rolls in a large pot, placing a bay leaf in between layers.

Step 11

Pour the tomato sauce mixture over the cabbage rolls.

Step 12

Cover the pot and place over low heat. Simmer gently for 90-120 minutes, until the rolls are tender.

Step 13

Before serving, sprinkle the cabbage rolls with chopped fresh dill.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(3358.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3449.1

Total Fat 229.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 79.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 781.9mg	0%
Sodium 4508.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 123.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 37.3g	0%
Total Sugars 60.9g
Protein 241.2g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 819.6mg	0%
Iron 24.2mg	0%
Potassium 5190.6mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 58.6%

Protein: 27.4%

Carbs: 14.0%