Description
Stuffed grape leaves, or dolmas, are a Mediterranean delight that combines tender grape leaves with a savory filling of rice, herbs, and spices. Each bite bursts with tangy goodness and is perfect for festive occasions like Eid. Easy to prepare and beautifully presented, these delightful parcels will impress your guests while adding a touch of tradition to your table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 jar (16 oz) grape leaves in brine
- 1 cup short-grain rice
- 1 lb ground lamb or beef (or turkey/chicken)
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until clear. In a bowl, mix the rice with ground meat, parsley, dill, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Rinse grape leaves in cold water to reduce saltiness. Lay each leaf flat with the stem facing you.
- Place about 1 tablespoon of filling at the bottom inch of each leaf. Fold in sides and roll tightly from bottom to top.
- Layer unused grape leaves at the bottom of a pot. Arrange rolled grape leaves seam-side down in layers.
- Pour tomato sauce mixed with water over the rolls until just covered. Drizzle olive oil on top and cover with a plate to keep submerged.
- Simmer on low heat for about 60 minutes until rice is tender and flavors meld beautifully.
- Let cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 stuffed grape leaves (180g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg