Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion , finely chopped
5 cups chopped mushrooms
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/8 teaspoon cayenne
1/4 teaspoon turmeric
1 cup cooked yellow split peas
2 cups cooked white rice
1 jar grape leaves
1 cup water
Stuffed grape leaves, also known as dolmeh, are a popular appetizer in Persian, Turkish, and Greek cuisine. They are made by filling blanched or pickled grape leaves with a mixture of rice, vegetables, and spices. In this recipe, the inclusion of mushrooms and yellow split peas gives a hearty, savory flavor to the dish. Grape leaves have a soft, chewy texture with a slightly bitter taste that balances well with the filling.

Instructions

1.In a large pan, heat the olive oil and sauté the onions until soft.
2.Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
3.Add the dried parsley, black pepper, cayenne, and turmeric and stir until fragrant.
4.Add the cooked yellow split peas and white rice and mix well.
5.Rinse the grape leaves under cold water to remove any excess salt and unfold them.
6.Place a heaping tablespoon of the filling in the center of each leaf and roll tightly into a small cylinder shape.
7.Place the stuffed grape leaves in a large pot, seam side down, and pour the water over them.
8.Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and bring to a boil.
9.Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, until the grape leaves are tender.
10.Remove the pot from the heat and let the grape leaves cool to room temperature before serving.

PROS

This vegetarian dish is packed with flavor and nutrition.

It is a great appetizer for a party or a light lunch on its own.

CONS

The preparation can be time-consuming, and the grape leaves can be fragile and tear easily while stuffing them.

Some people may not enjoy the slightly bitter taste of grape leaves.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Grape leaves are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.
They are low in calories and fat and may offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
Split peas are high in protein, fiber, and vitamins and help to stabilize blood sugar levels.
Mushrooms have immune-boosting properties and may help to reduce inflammation and cholesterol levels.

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