Keto Sarmale in Cabbage Leaves

Discover a low-carb twist on a traditional favorite with this Keto Sarmale in Cabbage Leaves recipe! Perfectly tender green cabbage is filled with a savory mixture of ground pork, cauliflower rice, and aromatic spices like paprika and dill, creating a dish that's both comforting and keto-friendly. The stuffed cabbage rolls are simmered with tangy sauerkraut juice and bay leaves for a depth of flavor that will transport your taste buds straight to Eastern Europe. With no rice or bread crumbs, this gluten-free, low-carb take on classic sarmale is ideal for anyone following a ketogenic diet. Serve these hearty rolls with a dollop of sour cream for a satisfying meal that's sure to impress.

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:120 mins

Total Time:150 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 head green cabbage
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium, finely chopped onion
• 500 grams ground pork
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 200 grams cauliflower rice
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried dill
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 250 milliliters sauerkraut juice
• 500 milliliters water
• 2 bay leaves

Directions

Step 1

Remove the core from the cabbage head. Boil in a pot of salted water until leaves are tender, about 10-15 minutes. Gently peel leaves off and set aside to cool.

Step 2

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute.

Step 3

Add ground pork to the pan, breaking it apart and cooking until browned and no longer pink.

Step 4

Stir in cauliflower rice, tomato paste, paprika, dill, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 5

Lay one cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Place about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture at the center of the leaf. Fold the sides over the filling and roll up, tucking in the ends securely. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

Step 6

In a large pot, layer some of the smaller, torn cabbage leaves at the bottom to prevent sticking.

Step 7

Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls tightly in layers in the pot.

Step 8

Pour sauerkraut juice and water over the rolls to almost cover them. Add the bay leaves.

Step 9

Bring to a light simmer over medium heat, then reduce to low heat, cover, and let it cook for about 2 hours until cabbage is tender and flavors meld.

Step 10

Serve hot and enjoy your Keto Sarmale with a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2034.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2053.5

Total Fat 133.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 43.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 450mg	0%
Sodium 4875.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 69.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 20.9g	0%
Total Sugars 32.1g
Protein 144.9g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 514.3mg	0%
Iron 11.1mg	0%
Potassium 2218.0mg	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: 58.4%

Protein: 28.1%

Carbs: 13.4%