Together at the Christmas table

Christmas in Romania is a celebration full of traditions, where rich and colorful meals play a central role. As Romanians, we like to explore and observe how different ingredients can transform the flavor of a dish. Throughout this article we will discover how some ingredients can improve the taste of traditional Christmas food, offering new ideas for dishes, derived from traditional Romanian ones.

Christmas traditions mean more than simple customs for us Romanians. They are the deep roots of our identity, stories passed down from generation to generation that unite us in a special way. Even if times change and generations evolve, the traditional magic of Christmas remains unchanged, as if timeless, and one of the most important traditions is the family meal, where all family members and friends gather to celebrate Christmas, marking the birth of Jesus.

One of the dishes that the whole family can enjoy are the Romanian Cabbage Rolls (Sarmale) made from Agricola’s Forest Rooster, a delicacy appreciated in Romanian cuisine for its distinct aroma. This ingredient can be included in various Christmas dishes, adding a touch of sophistication and originality, for example in the famous sarmale recipe.

Sarmale with Agricola’s Forest Rooster in Cabbage Sheets

The word “sarma” carries with it a fascinating story, traveling from the heart of Turkey, carrying its meaning of “roll”. This wonderful culinary creation, originally made by the skillful hands of the Turks, crossed borders and was embraced by the whole of Europe, leaving its mark especially in the countries that felt the presence of the magnificent Ottoman Empire.

Although the cabbage rolls have traveled through various cultures, the secret and art of its preparation have found a place in Transylvania, an authentic refuge. Here, tradition intertwines with craftsmanship in a dance of tastes and aromas. The sauerkraut gives the finely chopped meat and the rice in the filling a touch of flavor that brings to mind the warm fire of the stove, the gentle smile of the grandmother and the echo of carols sung by villagers dressed in traditional clothes.

Ingredients:

• 500g minced pork
• 200g Agricola’s Forest Rooster, finely chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups of rice
• Sauerkraut leaves
• 100g tomato broth
• Salt, pepper, dill and thyme to taste
• 100 ml oil

Method of preparation:

In a pan, sauté the onion in oil until translucent. Add the minced pork and the chopped Agricola’s Forest Rooster and cook until the meat is almost done.

Add the rice, spices and mix well. Prepare the cabbage leaves, removing the thick ribs. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture on each cabbage leaf and roll up tightly. Place the cabbage rolls (sarmale) in a pot, add the tomato broth and enough water to cover them. Let it simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours. Good appetite!

Creamy Agricola’s Forest Rooster Soup

Ingredients:

• 300g Agricola’s Forest Rooster, cleaned and cut
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, crushed
• 500ml chicken stock
• 200ml cooking cream
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Method of preparation:

In a large pot, melt the butter and sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add the mushrooms, the Agricola’s Forest Rooster and cook until soft. Pour in the chicken stock and let it simmer for 20 minutes. Use a blender to blend the soup until creamy. Add the cooking cream, salt and pepper to taste. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

The Christmas holidays represent a multitude of special moments and food plays an essential role in creating the festive atmosphere. By including the Agricola’s Forest Rooster in traditional Christmas dishes, we can add a touch of magic and originality, while preserving the spirit of Romanian traditions. Dare to experiment and rediscover the joy of coming together at the Christmas table!