Description
These irresistible stuffed grape leaves, also known as Dolma, are a flavorful Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dish filled with a savory rice mixture and wrapped in tender grape leaves. Perfect for any occasion, they can be served warm or cold as an appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients
- 1 jar grape leaves in brine (about 60 leaves)
- 1 cup uncooked rice (short grain preferred)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/2 cup olive oil, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
Instructions
- Rinse the grape leaves under cold water to remove excess brine and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat 1/4 cup olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
- Add rice, herbs (parsley, dill, mint), allspice, pepper, and salt. Cook for a few minutes until the rice is lightly toasted.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly before stuffing.
- Place a grape leaf vein-side up, add about 1 tablespoon of rice filling near the base, fold in the sides, and roll tightly.
- Line the bottom of a large pot with some unused or torn grape leaves to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the stuffed grape leaves seam-side down in layers inside the pot.
- Drizzle with remaining olive oil and lemon juice, and pour in water or broth until grape leaves are just covered.
- Place a plate on top to keep them from unrolling while cooking, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Can be served warm or chilled.
Notes
- Use short-grain rice for best texture and absorption.
- Stuffing can be made a day ahead to save time.
- Serve with yogurt or tzatziki sauce for extra flavor.
- Make sure to roll tightly but not too tight to allow rice to expand during cooking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 grape leaves
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
