Stuffed Grape Leaves (Yaprak Sarması)

Yaprak Sarması, also known as Stuffed Grape Leaves, is a traditional dish in Gagauz cuisine. This dish features tender grape leaves wrapped around a flavorful filling, creating a delicious and satisfying appetizer or main course.

Stuffed Grape Leaves (Yaprak Sarması)

Ingredients

  • 1 jar of grape leaves, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup rice
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix together the rice, onion, dill, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  2. Place a grape leaf on a flat surface, shiny side down. Place a spoonful of the rice mixture in the center of the leaf.
  3. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top.
  4. Repeat with the remaining grape leaves and filling.
  5. Place the stuffed grape leaves in a large pot, seam side down, and add enough water to cover them.
  6. Place a plate on top of the grape leaves to keep them submerged, then cover the pot and cook over low heat for 1 hour.
  7. Once cooked, remove from heat and let the grape leaves cool before serving.

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
Protein
8g
Carbohydrates
25g
Fat
9g

Supplies

Large pot Plate

Tools

Spoon Knife

Serving suggestions

Serve the Yaprak Sarması with a dollop of yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing touch.

Tips & tricks

For a time-saving option, you can use canned grape leaves instead of preparing them from scratch.

Cost

$10