Cretan Stuffed Grape Leaves (Κρητικές Δολμάδες)

Κρητικές Δολμάδες, or Cretan Stuffed Grape Leaves, are a traditional dish from the island of Crete in Greece. These delicious stuffed grape leaves are filled with a flavorful mixture of rice, herbs, and spices, making them a perfect appetizer or main course.

Cretan Stuffed Grape Leaves (Κρητικές Δολμάδες)

Ingredients

  • 1 jar of grape leaves, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup of short-grain rice
  • 1/2 cup of olive oil
  • 1/4 cup of fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/4 cup of fresh mint, chopped
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup of pine nuts
  • 1/4 cup of raisins
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lemon, juiced

Instructions

  1. Prepare the filling by combining the rice, olive oil, dill, mint, onion, tomatoes, pine nuts, raisins, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  2. Place a grape leaf on a flat surface, shiny side down, and add a spoonful of the filling to the center of the leaf.
  3. Fold the bottom of the leaf over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll it up tightly.
  4. Repeat with the remaining grape leaves and filling.
  5. Place the stuffed grape leaves in a pot, seam side down, and pour the lemon juice and enough water to cover the grape leaves.
  6. Place a plate on top of the grape leaves to keep them in place, then cover the pot and simmer for 45 minutes.
  7. Remove from heat and let the grape leaves cool before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
45 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
150 per serving
Carbohydrates
25g
Protein
3g
Fat
4g

Supplies

Pot Plate

Tools

Knife Cutting board Bowl

Serving suggestions

Serve the Cretan Stuffed Grape Leaves with a side of tzatziki and a Greek salad for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

Make sure to rinse the grape leaves thoroughly to remove excess salt before using them in the recipe.

Cost

$10