Pugliese-style Stuffed Grape Leaves

Pugliese-style Stuffed Grape Leaves are a classic dish from the Pugliese cuisine, featuring tender grape leaves filled with a flavorful mixture of rice, herbs, and spices. This dish is a popular appetizer or side dish, perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Vegan Gluten Free Appetizer Pugliese Stuffed Grape Leaves Pugliese Cuisine Vegan Appetizer
Pugliese-style Stuffed Grape Leaves

Ingredients

  • 20 grape leaves, preserved in brine
  • 1 cup short-grain rice
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 1/4 cup currants
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 lemons, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the grape leaves by rinsing them thoroughly to remove excess salt.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the rice, onion, pine nuts, currants, parsley, mint, olive oil, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Place a grape leaf on a flat surface, shiny side down. Place a small 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, forming a compact roll.
  5. Repeat with the remaining grape leaves and filling.
  6. Place the stuffed grape leaves in a large pot, seam side down, in a single layer. Add enough water to cover the grape leaves.
  7. Place a heatproof plate on top of the grape leaves to keep them submerged during cooking.
  8. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.
  9. Remove the stuffed grape leaves from the pot and let them 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

Large pot Heatproof plate

Tools

Knife Cutting board Bowl Spoon

Serving suggestions

Serve the Pugliese-style Stuffed Grape Leaves with a side of tzatziki sauce and a fresh salad.

Tips & tricks

For a time-saving option, you can use jarred grape leaves instead of preserving them in brine yourself.

Cost

$10