Dolmades Me Arni Kai Ryzi (greek-style Stuffed Grape Leaves With Lamb And Rice)

Dolmades me arni kai ryzi, or Greek-style Stuffed Grape Leaves with Lamb and Rice, is a traditional dish from Epirotic cuisine. These delicious stuffed grape leaves are a perfect combination of savory lamb, fragrant rice, and aromatic herbs, making them a popular choice for a flavorful appetizer or main course.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Appetizer/Main Course Epirotic Greek Cuisine Stuffed Grape Leaves Lamb Rice
Dolmades Me Arni Kai Ryzi (greek-style Stuffed Grape Leaves With Lamb And Rice)

Ingredients

  • 1 jar of grape leaves, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 pound ground lamb
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, rice, onion, garlic, dill, mint, pine nuts, and half of the olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, and mix well.
  2. Place a grape leaf on a flat surface, shiny side down. Place a small spoonful of the lamb and rice mixture in the center of the leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top, forming a small package.
  3. Repeat with the remaining grape leaves and filling mixture.
  4. Arrange the dolmades in a large pot, seam side down, in a single layer. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the dolmades and pour the lemon juice over them.
  5. Add enough water to the pot to just cover the dolmades. Place a heatproof plate on top of the dolmades to keep them in place during cooking.
  6. Cover the pot and bring the water to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the rice is tender and the dolmades are cooked through.
  7. Remove the dolmades from the pot and let them cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
250 per serving
Carbohydrates
20g
Protein
15g
Fat
10g

Supplies

Large bowl Large pot Heatproof plate

Tools

Knife Cutting board Spoon

Serving suggestions

Serve the dolmades with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a delightful appetizer or light meal.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the lamb with cooked chickpeas or lentils for a protein-packed alternative.

Cost

$20