Ankara Sarması

Introduction to Ankara Sarması

Originating from the vibrant city of Ankara in Turkey, Ankara Sarması is a traditional dish that beautifully combines spiced rice wrapped in delicious grape leaves. This dish is often served as an appetizer or a side dish during festive gatherings and is renowned for its rich flavors and cultural significance. In Turkish cuisine, 'sarma' refers to a leaf or a vegetable that is stuffed. The word 'Ankara' ensures its distinctive connection to the capital city of Turkey, celebrated for its culinary traditions and historical landmarks.

Ingredients

• Grape Leaves - 1 jar (16 oz), thoroughly rinsed and drained.
• Short-grain Rice - 2 cups, rinsed until the water runs clear.
• Olive Oil - 1/2 cup for sautéing the rice, plus extra for greasing the pan.
• Onion - 2 medium, finely chopped.
• Pine Nuts - 1/4 cup.
• Currants - 1/4 cup.
• Fresh Dill - 2 tablespoons, chopped.
• Fresh Mint - 2 tablespoons, chopped.
• Parsley - 1/4 cup, chopped.
• Lemon Juice - 2 lemons.
• Salt - 1 tablespoon.
• Sugar - 1 tablespoon.
• Black Pepper - 1 teaspoon.
• Water - 2 cups for cooking the rice, plus extra for steaming.

Preparation

Preparing the Filling

1. Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the rinsed short-grain rice to the skillet, stirring to coat the grains in the oil. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the rice becomes lightly golden.
3. Mix in the pine nuts and currants, followed by the fresh dill, fresh mint, and parsley. Season with salt, sugar, and black pepper.
4. Pour in 2 cups of water and allow the mixture to simmer on medium heat until the water is absorbed and the rice is partially cooked, about 10 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let the rice mixture cool to room temperature.

Wrapping the Sarması

1. Lay out the rinsed grape leaves on a clean flat surface.
2. Place a tablespoon of the rice filling at the stem end of each leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it forward to form a tight cylinder.
3. Repeat the process until all the filling is used.
4. Place the rolls seam-side down in a greased pot or baking dish.

Cooking the Sarması

1. Drizzle a little olive oil over the assembled rolls and squeeze the juice of 2 lemons over them.
2. Add enough water to come halfway up the sides of the rolls in the pot or dish.
3. Cover with a heat-proof plate inverted to hold the rolls in place during cooking.
4. Simmer over low heat or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30-45 minutes. Use a cooking timer to ensure accuracy.
5. Allow to cool to room temperature before serving, or refrigerate for later use.

How to Serve Ankara Sarması

Ankara Sarması can be served as an appetizer or a side dish. It pairs well with a variety of dishes, lending its fresh and zesty flavors to any meal. Consider serving with a dollop of yogurt or alongside grilled meats and fresh salads.

Enjoying Your Meal

This dish can be enjoyed hot or cold, making it a versatile choice for any season. Perfect for gatherings and celebrations, it is often presented as part of a mezze platter alongside other Turkish delights.