Dolma (assyrian Stuffed Grape Leaves)

Dolma is a traditional Assyrian dish made with grape leaves stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, herbs, and spices. This dish is a staple in Assyrian cuisine and is often served at special occasions and family gatherings.

Vegan Gluten Free Main Course Assyrian Assyrian Cuisine Grape Leaves Stuffed Dolma
Dolma (assyrian Stuffed Grape Leaves)

Ingredients

  • 1 jar of grape leaves, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup of long-grain rice
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup of fresh mint, chopped
  • 1/4 cup of olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon of ground allspice
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 lemon, juiced

Instructions

  1. Rinse the grape leaves under cold water and set aside to drain.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the rice, onion, parsley, mint, olive oil, allspice, cinnamon, black pepper, salt, and lemon juice. Mix well.
  3. Place a grape leaf on a flat surface, shiny side down. Trim any stems. Place a small spoonful of the rice mixture in the center of the leaf.
  4. Fold the bottom of the leaf over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll into a tight cylinder.
  5. Repeat with the remaining grape leaves and filling.
  6. Place the dolma in a large pot, seam side down, in a single layer. Add enough water to cover the dolma.
  7. Place a plate on top of the dolma to keep them from unraveling during cooking.
  8. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the grape leaves are tender.
  9. Remove the dolma from the pot and let them cool before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
40 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
200 per serving
Carbohydrates
35g
Protein
5g
Fat
4g

Supplies

Large pot Plate

Tools

Knife Cutting board Bowl

Serving suggestions

Serve the dolma with a side of yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.

Tips & tricks

For a time-saving option, you can use pre-cooked rice or a rice cooker to prepare the rice filling for the dolma.

Cost

$5