turkey breast rolls

Turkey breast sarmale - a healthy and delicious choice

Sarmale are a traditional dish, full of flavor and history, that brings the family together around the table. Although classic sarmale are often made with pork, I propose a lighter version using turkey breast. This recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy a tasty dish without feeling too heavy after the meal. Get ready to transform a traditional recipe into a light and healthy delight!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients

- 1 kg turkey breast (fresh or frozen, but preferably fresh for better taste)
- 2 medium onions (choose white or yellow onions for a sweeter taste)
- 200 g rice (preferably long-grain rice for better texture)
- 1 slice of bread (preferably whole grain bread for added nutrients)
- 1 pickled cabbage (of suitable size, no smaller than 1.5 kg)
- 3 tablespoons tomato juice (or tomato sauce for a more intense flavor)
- A bunch of fresh dill (for added flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or sunflower oil)

Step by step

1. Preparing the meat: Start by chopping the turkey breast. Use a meat grinder to achieve a uniform consistency. If you don't have a grinder, you can use a blender, being careful not to turn it into a paste.

2. Sautéed onion: In a skillet, add the 2 tablespoons of oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes golden. This will add a sweet and aromatic flavor to the filling.

3. Filling mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, sautéed onion, washed and drained rice, the slice of bread soaked in water and squeezed, salt, and pepper. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous composition.

4. Forming the sarmale: Take a leaf of pickled cabbage (if it is too salty, you can rinse it with cold water) and place a tablespoon of filling in the center. Roll the cabbage leaf so that the filling is well covered, then fold in the edges. Repeat the process until you finish all the filling.

5. Preparing the pot: In a large pot, place a few cabbage leaves at the bottom to prevent the sarmale from sticking. Add a bunch of dill, then arrange the sarmale in layers, covering them with chopped cabbage. Add enough water to cover the sarmale.

6. Boiling the sarmale: Place the pot over medium heat and let it boil. After about 30 minutes, when the sarmale are almost cooked, add the tomato juice. This will add a pleasant acidity and enrich the flavor of the dish.

7. Serving: After the sarmale are boiled (about an hour), let them cool slightly before serving. They are delicious with warm polenta and sour cream, which adds a creamy and rich note.

Useful tips

- Filling variations: If you want to experiment, you can add grated vegetables (carrot, bell pepper) to the filling or even some chopped olives for a different taste.
- Grape leaves: You can replace cabbage leaves with vine leaves, offering another flavor profile. This variant is also popular and can add a Mediterranean note to the dish.
- Slow cooking: If you have time, sarmale can also be cooked on low heat for a longer period, resulting in an even more intense flavor.

Nutritional information

Turkey breast sarmale are a lighter option, having a lower fat content compared to those made with pork. A serving of sarmale contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of rice and oil used. These sarmale are rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them an excellent choice for a balanced meal.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use chicken instead of turkey? Yes, chicken is a good alternative, offering a slightly different but still delicious taste.
- How can I store leftover sarmale? Sarmale can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. They can be easily reheated in the oven or on the stovetop.
- What wine pairs well with sarmale? A dry white wine or a light red wine are excellent choices that can complement the flavors of the sarmale.

A personal note

This turkey breast sarmale recipe reminds me of the moments spent with family when every member participated in preparing this delight. It is a recipe that brings together tradition and innovation, and I believe you will love trying it. It can also become a favorite recipe in your home, especially in the cold season when the aroma of sarmale fills the entire house.

Enjoy every step of cooking and don't forget to let your creativity shine! Happy cooking!