Are you looking for a delicious and authentic stuffed grape vine leaves recipe? Look no further! These flavorful grape leaves, also known as dolmas, are a popular dish in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly in Greek and Turkish households. Made with tender leaves, savory filling, and a touch of lemon zest, these stuffed grape vine leaves are a delightful treat that will impress your family and friends.
Stuffed grape vine leaves, or dolmas, are traditionally made with grape leaves, which are typically found in Greek or Middle Eastern grocery stores. The leaves are pliable and have a slightly sweet taste, which complements the savory filling. To prepare these delightful morsels, you will need a few key ingredients, including rice, herbs, and spices, as well as the grape leaves themselves.
Here’s a simple and delicious stuffed grape vine leaves recipe that you can try at home:
Ingredients:
– 1 package of grape leaves (about 50 leaves)
– 1 cup of long-grain rice
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon of lemon zest
– 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup of fresh dill, chopped
Instructions:
1.
Rinse the grape leaves under cold water and drain them. In a large pot, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the grape leaves and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they are soft. Drain and set aside.
2.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, cooked onions, salt, pepper, cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, lemon zest, parsley, and dill. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
4.
Place a grape leaf on a flat surface with the stem side facing you. Place a small amount of the rice mixture on the leaf, leaving a small border around the edges. Roll the leaf tightly, tucking in the edges as you go, to form a tight roll.
5.
Repeat the process with the remaining grape leaves and rice mixture, placing the stuffed leaves seam-side down in a baking dish.
6.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour a little olive oil over the stuffed grape leaves and cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake for about 45 minutes, or until the leaves are tender.
7.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the leaves are golden brown and crispy.
8.
Serve the stuffed grape vine leaves warm, either on their own or with a side of yogurt or tzatziki sauce for an extra touch of flavor.
Enjoy your homemade stuffed grape vine leaves, and don’t forget to share this delightful recipe with your loved ones!
