Dolmas- Vegetarian Stuffed Grape Leaves with Rice & Herbs

A classic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dish—grape leaves stuffed with herbed rice, rolled by hand, and served chilled with lemon wedges.


Ingredients:

  • 1 jar grape leaves in brine (about 60 leaves)

  • 1 cup short-grain rice (uncooked)

  • ½ cup chopped parsley

  • ¼ cup chopped mint

  • ¼ cup diced onion

  • Juice of 2 lemons

  • ¼ cup olive oil

  • Salt and pepper

  • 1½ cups water or vegetable broth

Instructions:

  1. Rinse grape leaves gently and pat dry.

  2. In a bowl, combine rice, herbs, onion, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

  3. Place 1 tsp of filling in the center of each leaf. Fold sides over and roll tightly.

  4. Arrange in a pot, seam side down. Layer as needed.

  5. Add water/broth to cover. Place a small plate over the top to keep rolls from floating.

  6. Cover and simmer for 45–50 minutes until rice is tender.

  7. Chill and serve with lemon wedges.

Tip: These are often served as part of a mezze platter or as a cold side dish with yogurt or tahini.


Tiffany Allegro