greek stuffed grape leaves recipe

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The Best greek stuffed grape leaves recipe
Greek Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmades)
🥘Ingredients
👨‍🍳Directions
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Greek Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmades) Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmades)

The Best greek stuffed grape leaves recipe

I have been making Greek stuffed grape leaves, or dolmades, for years and they are always a hit in my house. My kids love them for lunch or as a snack, and I feel good knowing they are eating something healthy. The combination of rice, herbs, and sometimes ground meat wrapped in tender grape leaves is just perfect. This recipe is great for a family dinner or for bringing to a potluck. Grape leaves are low in calories and high in fiber, and the olive oil adds healthy fats. It is a traditional dish that is both satisfying and nutritious.

Greek Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmades)

4.8 from 705 votes

Tender grape leaves stuffed with a savory mixture of rice, fresh herbs, and ground beef, simmered in a lemony broth. This classic Greek appetizer is perfect for sharing and can be served warm or at room temperature.

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Prep Time30 mins

Cook Time45 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time1 hour 15 mins

Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Filling

1 cup short grain white rice, rinsed

1/2 pound ground beef or lamb

1/2 cup finely chopped onion

1/4 cup chopped fresh dill

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

2 tablespoons pine nuts (optional)

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon allspice

For the Grape Leaves

1 jar (16 oz) grape leaves in brine, drained and rinsed

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

Juice of 1 lemon

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the grape leaves under cold water to remove excess brine. Place them in a bowl of hot water for 10 minutes to soften, then drain and pat dry.

2In a mixing bowl, combine the rice, ground meat, onion, dill, parsley, pine nuts, salt, pepper, and allspice. Mix until well combined.

3Lay a grape leaf flat on a cutting board with the stem end facing you. Place about 1 tablespoon of filling near the stem. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll tightly toward the tip of the leaf, like a small cigar.

4Repeat with remaining leaves and filling. If the leaves are small, you can trim the stems or overlap two leaves.

5Line the bottom of a large pot with a few unused or torn grape leaves to prevent sticking. Arrange the stuffed leaves in layers, seam side down, packing them snugly.

6Drizzle olive oil over the top, then pour in the broth and lemon juice. Place a plate or small lid directly on the stuffed leaves to keep them submerged during cooking.

7Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 45 minutes, until the rice is tender. Let cool slightly before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot

Mixing bowl

Sharp knife

Cutting board

Ladle

Plate or small lid to fit inside pot

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 35mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 28g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 12g

📝Notes

You can make these vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more rice or crumbled feta cheese. Serve with a side of tzatziki or plain Greek yogurt.

Watch Video Of How Greek Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmades) Works

This Greek stuffed grape leaves recipe is a staple in my kitchen because it is simple to put together and always impresses guests. It works perfectly for family gatherings or a quiet weeknight dinner. I hope you give it a try and enjoy it as much as we do.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmades)

1. Can I use fresh grape leaves instead of jarred?

Yes, you can. Fresh grape leaves need to be blanched in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to soften them before using. Jarred leaves are already brined and ready to use after rinsing.

2. How long do stuffed grape leaves last in the fridge?

They keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Store them in an airtight container with some of the cooking liquid to keep them moist.

3. Can I freeze Greek stuffed grape leaves?

Absolutely. Arrange the cooked dolmades in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag. They will last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.

4. Do I have to use meat in the filling?

No, you can make a vegetarian version by using only rice, herbs, and maybe some pine nuts or currants. The cooking time remains the same.

5. Why are my grape leaves tough after cooking?

This usually happens if the leaves are undercooked or if you used older, thicker leaves. Make sure to soften them in hot water before rolling, and cook them long enough until the rice is tender.

greek stuffed grape leaves recipe

The Best greek stuffed grape leaves recipe

Greek Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmades)