Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas)
This recipe for dolmas features an intriguing blend of spices, creating a delightful twist on the traditional Turkish dish. While typically served chilled, they can also be enjoyed warm. Before serving, add a refreshing touch by squeezing fresh lemon juice over them.
Preparation time: 30 min
Cooking time: 45 min
Resting time: 15 min
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Serves: 8
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 onions, minced
- 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice
- 1 1/2 cups hot water, or as needed to cover
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons dried currants
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon dried mint
- 1 tablespoon dried dill weed
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 (8 ounce) jar grape leaves, drained and rinsed in warm water
Method:
- Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the onions until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the rice, then add enough hot water to cover. Cover and simmer until the rice is halfway cooked, about 10 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the tomato paste, currants, pine nuts, cinnamon, mint, dill, allspice, and cumin. Let the mixture cool, about 15 minutes.
- Prepare a large pot by placing an inverted plate on the bottom to protect the dolmas from direct heat during steaming.
- Cut off and discard any grape leaf stems. Place about 1 teaspoon of the cooled rice mixture into the center of a leaf. Fold in the sides, then roll into a cigar shape. Place it into the prepared pot. Repeat with the remaining dolmas.
- Pour in just enough warm water to reach the bottom of the first layer of dolmas. Cover and simmer over low heat for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked. Check the water level often and add more as necessary.
Notes:
To make rolling the dolmas easier, briefly blanch the grape leaves in boiling water to soften them before filling and rolling. This will make the leaves more pliable and easier to work with.
Nutritional Info:
Calories: 208
Carbs: 39g
Protein 5g
Fat 4g
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