Ingredients

1/2 cup olive oil
1 large onion , finely chopped
2 cloves garlic , minced
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1 cup long-grain white rice
4 cups low sodium chicken broth
1/4 cup dry white wine
1 lb ground chicken
6 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup sliced whole scallion
1/2 cup chopped of fresh mint
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 jar grape leaves , in brine , drained , rinsed , and drained again
Chicken-and-Rice-Stuffed Grape Leaves is a popular Mediterranean cuisine dish. A unique appetizer packed with protein and healthy complex carbs, this recipe is a favorite among Mediterranean-inspired menus. This dish is served cold or at room temperature and is perfect for outdoor gatherings. While it can take time to prepare, the finished product is well worth the effort. Once cooked, these stuffed grape leaves have a complex and aromatic flavor that is sure to impress your guests.

Instructions

1.In a large pot, heat up 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and ground allspice. Cook until the onions are soft and golden in color.
2.Add the rice and stir well. Cook until the rice becomes golden brown, stirring occasionally.
3.Pour in the chicken broth and the dry white wine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
4.In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, sliced whole scallion, chopped fresh mint, chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh dill, salt, and black pepper. Add in the cooked rice mixture and mix well.
5.Preheat the oven to 350°F. Take a grape leave and place it shiny side down on a flat surface. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the chicken and rice mixture onto the center of the grape leaf. Fold the bottom of the leaf over the filling, then fold the sides inwards toward the center. Roll the leaf upwards tightly, forming a small bundle. Continue with the remaining grape leaves and filling.
6.Place the stuffed grape leaves into a baking dish in a single layer. Pour over the remaining olive oil and lemon juice. Add enough water to the dish to reach about 1/4 to 1/2 inch of liquid.
7.Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the grape leaves are cooked and tender. Serve hot or at room temperature.

PROS

These savory stuffed grape leaves are a unique and flavorful dish that is packed with protein from the chicken and healthy rice.
They are a great appetizer setting the stage for Mediterranean fare.

CONS

This can be a time-consuming process and requires a lot of delicate work rolling the grape leaves.
Additionally, some may find the allspice and mint combination overpowering.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This dish is filled with health benefits. The chicken provides a great source of protein while the rice is rich in complex carbohydrates. The grape leaves provide a good source of fiber while the combination of herbs like parsley, mint, and dill provide various vitamins. Allspice is known to improve digestive health and can aid in digestion. Furthermore, grape leaves are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

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