A Hearty Greek Dish Filled with Rice, Meat, and Aromatic Herbs

Sarmades are a traditional dish like dolmades but made with cabbage leaves instead of grape leaves. The cabbage leaves are blanched to soften them and then stuffed with a filling typically made of rice, minced meat (often pork or beef), and various herbs and spices such as dill, parsley, and sometimes garlic. The filling is rolled into the cabbage leaves, and the rolls are simmered or stewed in a pot, often with a broth or tomato sauce, to enhance their flavor.

The flavor of Sarmades is savory, with the richness of the meat and the freshness of the herbs complementing the subtle bitterness of the cabbage. This dish is commonly served as a hearty appetizer or main course, particularly in Central Greece. Sarmades are enjoyed for their comforting, homestyle qualities and are often part of festive or family meals.