There’s nothing quite like the rich, comforting flavor of Romanian cabbage rolls. This beloved traditional dish brings together tender cabbage leaves, a savory pork-and-rice filling, and a slow-simmered tomato sauce that melts everything together beautifully. It’s the kind of hearty meal that warms both the heart and the home — especially during holidays and family gatherings.

If you love authentic Romanian recipes, you’ll also enjoy Traditional Romanian Cozonac — a soft, sweet holiday bread that’s loved at family celebrations.

Although this recipe takes a bit of time, the result is worth every minute. The aroma that fills your kitchen while these cabbage rolls simmer is unmistakable — deep, rich, and nostalgic.

🥬 What Are Romanian Cabbage Rolls?

Romanian cabbage rolls are made by wrapping a flavorful filling of minced meat, rice, onions, and spices inside pickled cabbage leaves. The rolls are arranged in layers, topped with tomato sauce and bacon, and slowly cooked until the flavors blend perfectly.

In Romania, this dish is often enjoyed during Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or Easter — but it’s just as comforting on a quiet Sunday afternoon. Every region adds its own twist: some mix pork and beef, others use smoked meat or sauerkraut juice for extra tanginess.

🍅 Ingredients That Make It Authentic

The secret to great Romanian cabbage rolls lies in the balance of ingredients:

Sour cabbage gives that signature tangy taste and keeps the rolls soft while cooking.
Minced pork provides richness and flavor.
Rice and onions make the filling fluffy and balanced.
Tomato sauce and smoked bacon create the perfect smoky, slightly sweet base.

These simple ingredients come together to create something that feels like a celebration on a plate.

👩‍🍳 How to Make Romanian Cabbage Rolls

The process may sound complex, but once you do it once, it’s easy to repeat.

Step 1: Prepare the cabbage by rinsing the leaves and trimming the thick veins.
Step 2: Make the filling by sautéing onions and rice, then mixing them with ground pork, egg, paprika, and herbs.
Step 3: Roll the cabbage leaves tightly and layer them in a pot with tomato sauce, bacon, and bay leaves.
Step 4: Simmer gently for about 2 hours — patience is key!

When done, the cabbage should be tender, and the filling rich and juicy.

🍽️ How to Serve Cabbage Rolls

The traditional way to serve Romanian cabbage rolls is with a side of polenta (mămăligă) and a generous dollop of sour cream. The creamy texture balances the tangy cabbage and makes every bite perfect.

For another deeply traditional Romanian comfort food, try Varză călită cu ciolan afumat — rich, smoky, and perfect for cold days.

🌿 Tips for Perfect Cabbage Rolls

If the cabbage is too salty, soak it in cold water for 30 minutes before using.
Use a mix of pork and beef for a lighter, less fatty version.
The longer they cook, the better they taste — and they’re even more delicious the next day!
Always store leftovers in the same sauce to keep the flavor intact.

💚 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic, authentic Romanian flavor
Hearty and satisfying comfort food
Great for holidays or meal prep
Reheats beautifully the next day

This dish is more than food — it’s a taste of Romanian tradition and hospitality.

Romanian cabbage rolls are one of the most iconic traditional dishes, closely associated with family meals and holidays.

Traditional Romanian Cabbage Rolls

These Romanian cabbage rolls are a comforting, traditional dish made with tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mix of minced pork, rice, and herbs, then slowly simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for cozy family dinners or festive occasions.

Pin Recipe

Prep Time 40

Cook Time 2

Total Time 2 40

Servings: 6

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Romanian

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

1 large sour cabbage (about 1.5 kg)
800 g minced pork
100 g rice
2 medium onions, finely chopped
200 g tomato sauce
100 g smoked bacon or ham
1 egg
1 tbsp vegetable oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp thyme
2 bay leaves
Fresh dill (optional)

Equipment

Large pot
Frying pan
Cutting board
Knife
Mixing bowl

Method

Prepare the cabbage: Rinse the sour cabbage leaves under cold water to remove excess salt. Trim the thick veins and separate the leaves.
Make the filling: In a frying pan, sauté the chopped onions in a bit of oil until soft. Add the rice and cook for 2–3 minutes, then combine with minced pork, egg, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
Roll the cabbage leaves: Place a spoonful of filling in each cabbage leaf and roll tightly, tucking in the sides.
Cook: Line the bottom of a large pot with leftover cabbage leaves and pieces of bacon. Arrange the rolls in layers, pour tomato sauce on top, add bay leaves, and cover with more cabbage leaves. Pour enough water to cover and simmer gently for about 2 hours.
Serve: Serve warm with sour cream, fresh bread, or polenta.

Notes

Don’t over-salt — sour cabbage already contains salt.

Mix pork with beef for a lighter taste.

These cabbage rolls taste even better the next day — just reheat gently before serving.

💬 Final Thoughts

These Romanian cabbage rolls bring together everything you love about traditional food — deep flavor, slow cooking, and comfort in every bite. Whether it’s your first time making them or you grew up with this recipe, one thing is certain: once they’re on the table, they disappear fast!

And if you want the perfect Romanian dessert to serve after this meal, try Papanasi — a classic sweet treat topped with jam and sour cream.

Serve them hot with sour cream and polenta, and you’ll have a meal that feels like home.

Romanian cabbage rolls (sarmale) are part of the broader tradition of stuffed cabbage dishes found across Europe, with the general dish documented on Wikipedia.