Gagauz-style Stuffed Grape Leaves (Yaprak Dolması)

Yaprak Dolması is a traditional dish in Gagauz cuisine, featuring grape leaves stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, herbs, and spices. This dish is popular for its delicious taste and unique presentation.

Gagauz-style Stuffed Grape Leaves (Yaprak Dolması)

Ingredients

  • 1 jar of grape leaves
  • 1 cup of rice
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup of olive oil
  • 1/4 cup of pine nuts
  • 1/4 cup of currants
  • 1/4 cup of chopped fresh dill
  • 1/4 cup of chopped fresh mint
  • 1 teaspoon of paprika
  • 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 lemon, sliced

Instructions

  1. Prepare the grape leaves by rinsing them under cold water and draining them.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the rice, onion, olive oil, pine nuts, currants, dill, mint, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
  3. Place a grape leaf on a flat surface, shiny side down. Place a spoonful of the rice mixture in the center of the leaf.
  4. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top.
  5. Repeat with the remaining grape leaves and filling mixture.
  6. Place the stuffed grape leaves in a large pot, seam side down, in a single layer. Place the lemon slices on top.
  7. Add enough water to cover the grape leaves, then place a plate on top to keep them submerged.
  8. Cover the pot and cook over medium heat for 1 hour.
  9. Once cooked, remove from heat and let the grape leaves cool in the pot.
  10. Transfer to a serving platter and serve 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
200 per serving
Carbohydrates
35g
Protein
5g
Fat
4g

Supplies

Large pot Large bowl Plate Serving platter

Tools

Spoon Knife

Serving suggestions

Serving suggestion: Serve with a side of yogurt and a fresh salad.

Tips & tricks

Tip: If the grape leaves are too sour, you can soak them in water for a few hours before using them in the recipe.

Cost

$10