Conteúdo Criado e Revisado pela nossa equipe
stuffed grape leaves
Stuffed grape leaves for a light, flavorful meal. Mediterranean tradition with a healthy twist for your practical day. Try it!
Ingredients
Method
Preparing the filling
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear and drain well.
- In a bowl, combine rice, onion, tomato, fresh parsley, mint, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
Stuffing and rolling the grape leaves
- Lay out each grape leaf with the shiny side down. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling in the center near the base of the leaf.
- Fold in the sides over the filling, then roll up from the base to the tip, keeping the roll tight but not too tight, as the rice will expand while cooking.
Cooking the stuffed grape leaves
- Line the bottom of a large pot with a few unused or broken grape leaves to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the stuffed grape leaves seam side down in the pot, packing them snugly in layers.
- Drizzle a little olive oil and the juice of one lemon over the top. Add enough water just to cover the rolls.
- Place a plate on top of the rolls to keep them from unrolling. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 40–45 minutes, or until the leaves are tender and the rice is cooked.
- Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your stuffed grape leaves warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Stuffed grape leaves, also known as dolma, are a beloved highlight of Mediterranean cuisine, prized for their delicate flavor and remarkable versatility. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, these savory rolls can easily adapt to your taste and dietary preferences.
Practical tips for perfect stuffed grape leaves
- Choose tender grape leaves: If using jarred or preserved leaves, rinse them well to remove excess salt or brine, and blanch briefly in boiling water to make them pliable.
- Don’t overfill: Use just a spoonful of filling for each leaf, allowing room for the rice to expand during cooking.
- Keep the rolls tight but gentle: Wrapping too tightly may cause the leaves to tear or the rice to burst out, so aim for a snug, not compressed, roll.
Ingredient substitutions and enhancements
- Rice alternatives: Substitute brown rice with white rice, quinoa, or bulgur for a different texture and nutritional value.
- Add flavor: Garlic, pine nuts, or currants can be included in the filling for extra layers of flavor.
- Vegan or with protein: For a heartier version, add cooked minced meat to the filling, or keep it vegan as in the Mediterranean tradition.
Preparation and serving ideas
- Line the pot with extra grape leaves to avoid sticking and impart additional flavor.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the rolls before serving for a bright finish.
- Stuffed grape leaves pair beautifully with tzatziki sauce, hummus, or a simple Greek salad for a refreshing meal.
- Serve them as part of a mezze platter, alongside olives, roasted vegetables, and fresh bread for a festive table.
