Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup raw brown rice
3 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 lb ground beef , lamb or 1/2 lb turkey
1/4 teaspoon allspice
2 teaspoons dried dill
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon dried mint
1 pinch clove
1/4 cup pine nuts
1/4 cup currants
grape leaves , 1 jar
3 lemons
1 1/2 cups beef broth
1 cup tomato juice
Stuffed grape leaves, also known as dolmas, are a popular Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dish made with a mixture of rice, ground meat, and spices rolled in grape leaves. The dish dates back to ancient times and is still enjoyed today in many cultures around the world. The dish is perfect as an appetizer or a light meal, and it's easy to prepare with canned grape leaves.

Instructions

1.In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add brown rice and chicken broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until rice is tender.
2.In a mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, soy sauce, lemon juice, ground meat, allspice, dill, cinnamon, dried mint, clove, pine nuts, and currants. Mix well.
3.Rinse canned grape leaves in cold water, then remove leaves from the stems carefully and pat dry with paper towels.
4.On a clean surface, lay a sheet of grape leaf flat with the shiny side facing down. Place a tablespoon of filling mixture on the center of the leaf, then carefully fold the bottom of the leaf over the filling, followed by the sides, then roll up the leaf to seal in the filling. Repeat with remaining filling and leaves.
5.In a pot, arrange the stuffed grape leaves in one layer, then top them with lemon slices. Pour beef broth and tomato juice over the grape leaves.
6.Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the leaves are cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
7.Serve the stuffed grape leaves hot or cold with a squeeze of lemon juice and enjoy!

PROS

Stuffed grape leaves are tender and flavorful, with a satisfying combination of meat, rice, nuts, and raisins.
They can be enjoyed as a healthy appetizer or a light main dish.
The dish is rich in protein, iron, carbohydrates, and fiber, and has been known to help reduce inflammation and improve digestive health.

CONS

The recipe calls for canned grape leaves, which can be high in sodium.
Additionally, the stuffing contains pine nuts and currants which may not be suitable for people with allergies.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Stuffed grape leaves are a nutrient-rich dish. The vine leaves contain high levels of antioxidants and vitamin C, while the stuffing is made from protein-rich ground meat and fiber-rich brown rice. Pine nuts and currants are also rich in healthy fats and antioxidants. Moreover, the dish is low in fat and calories, making it a healthy option for weight watchers.

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