Low Fat Traditional Sarma

Delight in the comforting flavors of Eastern Europe with this Low Fat Traditional Sarma recipe, a healthier twist on a beloved classic. This dish features tender pickled cabbage leaves stuffed with a flavorful mix of lean ground turkey or chicken, aromatic spices, and hearty white rice, all simmered to perfection in a rich tomato-infused vegetable broth. By using lean protein and minimal oil, this recipe retains the authentic taste of traditional sarma while being lighter and lower in fat. Perfectly rolled and cooked until melt-in-your-mouth tender, each bite is packed with savory goodness. Serve warm with a dollop of low-fat yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh parsley to complete the meal. Whether you're looking for a lighter family dinner or a comforting dish that’s easy on the waistline, this low-fat sarma will not disappoint.

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:25 mins

Cook Time:75 mins

Total Time:100 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 12 leaves Pickled cabbage leaves
• 500 grams Lean ground turkey or chicken
• 100 grams White rice
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Paprika
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
• 500 milliliters Vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the pickled cabbage leaves to remove excess brine. If they are too large, carefully cut each leaf in half and remove the thick stem in the middle.

Step 2

In a mixing bowl, combine the lean ground meat, rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix thoroughly to create the stuffing.

Step 3

Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Place a small amount of filling (approximately 2 tablespoons) near the base of the leaf. Fold the sides in and roll tightly to form a small bundle. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.

Step 4

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Arrange the rolls (seam side down) snugly in the pot in layers.

Step 5

In a separate bowl, mix the vegetable broth and tomato paste until smooth. Pour this mixture over the stuffed cabbage rolls, ensuring they are mostly submerged. Add more broth or water if needed.

Step 6

Place a heatproof plate on top of the rolls to keep them in place during cooking.

Step 7

Cover the pot with a lid and cook on low heat for 60–75 minutes, or until the rice inside the rolls is cooked through and tender.

Step 8

Remove from heat and let the Sarma rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Step 9

Serve warm with a side of low-fat yogurt or freshly chopped parsley for garnish, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1867.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1479.9

Total Fat 64.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 15.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.8g
Cholesterol 400mg	0%
Sodium 8744.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 105.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 26.0g	0%
Total Sugars 29.6g
Protein 132.3g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 463.8mg	0%
Iron 14.2mg	0%
Potassium 3790.3mg	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: 38.0%

Protein: 34.5%

Carbs: 27.6%