Are you looking for a delicious and authentic dish to add to your culinary repertoire? Look no further! The recipe for dolmas stuffed grape leaves is a timeless favorite that brings together the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. These delightful leaves are filled with a savory mixture of rice, herbs, and spices, creating a perfect appetizer or side dish that is sure to impress your guests.
Dolmas, also known as dolmadakia or dolmades, are a staple in Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern cuisine. The process of preparing these stuffed grape leaves may seem daunting at first, but with the right recipe and a few tips, you’ll be able to create a mouthwatering dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of grape leaves (about 20-25 leaves)
– 1 cup of long-grain rice
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup of olive oil
– 1/4 cup of lemon juice
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried mint
Instructions:
1. Rinse the grape leaves under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. You may need to blanch the leaves in boiling water for a few minutes to make them more pliable, depending on the brand and freshness.
2. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the rice is al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the cooked rice, cooked onions and garlic, salt, pepper, cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, oregano, and mint. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
5. Place a grape leaf on a flat surface, with the vein side facing up. Place a small amount of the rice mixture on the bottom of the leaf, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Fold the sides of the leaf over the rice mixture, then roll it up tightly, tucking in the edges as you go. Repeat this process with the remaining grape leaves and rice mixture.
7. In a large pot, bring 2 inches of water to a boil. Place the stuffed grape leaves in a steamer basket or a colander, and place them in the pot. Cover and steam for about 30 minutes, or until the grape leaves are tender.
8. Once the dolmas are cooked, remove them from the pot and transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle with lemon juice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy your homemade dolmas stuffed grape leaves with a side of tzatziki, hummus, or any other Mediterranean dip of your choice. This dish is perfect for any occasion, from a casual dinner with friends to a festive gathering with family. Happy cooking!
