Dolmades (greek-style Stuffed Grape Leaves)

Dolmades, or Greek-style stuffed grape leaves, are a classic Mediterranean dish that is perfect for appetizers or a light meal. These delicious parcels are filled with a flavorful mixture of rice, herbs, and spices, making them a popular choice for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Vegetarian Vegan Appetizer Greek Greek Cuisine Stuffed Grape Leaves Mediterranean Appetizer
Dolmades (greek-style Stuffed Grape Leaves)

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 pine nuts
  • 1/4 cup of currants
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup of fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/4 cup of fresh mint, chopped
  • 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground allspice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lemon, juiced

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the rice, olive oil, pine nuts, currants, onion, garlic, dill, mint, parsley, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper.
  2. Place a grape leaf on a flat surface, shiny side down, and add a spoonful of the rice mixture 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 into a small parcel.
  4. Repeat with the remaining grape leaves and rice mixture.
  5. Place the dolmades in a large pot, seam side down, in a single layer.
  6. Pour the lemon juice over the dolmades and add enough water to cover them.
  7. Place a heatproof plate on top of the dolmades to keep them submerged during cooking.
  8. Cover the pot and simmer over low heat for 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
  9. Remove from the heat and let the dolmades cool in the pot 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
20g
Protein
3g
Fat
6g

Supplies

Large pot Heatproof plate

Tools

Knife Cutting board Bowl

Serving suggestions

Serve the dolmades with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Tips & tricks

For a time-saving option, you can use pre-cooked rice to cut down on the preparation time.

Cost

$15