Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmades)

May 09, 2023May 9, 20230 0

Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmades) recipe with lamb and rice filling

by The Chefin Main

Prep

20 min

Cook

120 min

Ready In

140 min

Level

Difficult

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

546

Sugar

Fat

29g

Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmades) are a popular dish in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. Traditionally, the filling consists of a mixture of rice, herbs, and meat, such as lamb or beef. The filling is then wrapped in grape leaves and cooked in a tomato-based sauce. This dish has become popular around the world and in America, and can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course.

Instructions

1.	In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, rice, chopped green onions, chopped mint, and olive oil.
2.	Drain the jar of grape leaves and lay them out flat. Take a grape leaf and place it flat on a work surface, shiny side down.
3.	Spoon a tablespoon or so of the lamb mixture onto the leaf, near the base. Fold in the sides of the leaf and then roll tightly from the base to form a cigar shape.
4.	Place the rolled grape leaf, seam side down, in a large pot. Repeat this process with the remaining grape leaves and filling.
5.	Once all the rolled grape leaves are in the pot, pour in the can of tomatoes and enough water to come about 1/2 way up the grape leaves.
6.	Cook on low for 1 1/2 - 2 hours, or until the rice is cooked through and the grape leaves are tender.

PROS

Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmades) are a flavorful and protein-packed main course that will satisfy your hunger.
The combination of the ground lamb, rice, and herbs creates a delicious Mediterranean-inspired dish that will transport your taste buds.

CONS

While the dish itself is healthy, grape leaves are high in sodium, so be mindful of your salt intake when consuming this dish.
Also, rolling the grape leaves can take a bit of practice to perfect.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmades) are a great source of protein, fiber, and beneficial nutrients such as iron, zinc and B vitamins. The mint in the recipe is known to aid digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties. The olive oil used in the recipe is a healthy fat that can be beneficial for heart health.

	1 jar grape leaves
	1 lb very-lean ground lamb
	1 can tomatoes
	1 cup long-grain rice
	1/3 cup olive oil
	2 bunches green onions , chopped
	3 cups loosely packed mint leaves , chopped
	2 lemons , juice of