Ingredients

1 lb pickled grape leaves , pickled in brine then washed and drained
4 medium onions , diced
2 cups rice , washed under cold water and drained
1 cup flat leaf parsley , chopped finely
1/2 cup olive oil
1/3 cup pine nuts
1/4 cup dried currant
1 tablespoon dried mint flakes
1 teaspoon allspice
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
2 tablespoons lemon salt
1/2 lemon , juice of
Stuffed Vine Leaves, also known as Dolma, are a popular appetizer and main dish in Turkish cuisine. The dish typically consists of a filling made of rice and spices, rolled into grape leaves and cooked in a pot. Dolma is not only healthy but also delicious and can be enjoyed as a light meal or a side dish. The filling can be modified to include meat or vegetables, depending on personal preference. Here's an authentic Turkish recipe for Stuffed Vine Leaves (Dolma) that can be easily prepared at home and enjoyed with friends and family.

Instructions

1.Gently separate the leaves from the pickled grape leaves.
2.In a large pan, sauté the pine nuts and onions in olive oil until the onions become translucent.
3.Add in the washed rice and stir thoroughly.
4.Add in the dried mint, allspice, black pepper, cinnamon, granulated sugar, dried currants, and chopped parsley.
5.Pour in 1 cup of water and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes or until all the water has been absorbed. Set aside the mixture.
6.Take one grape leaf and cut off the stem. Place the shiny side of the leaf facing down and add in 1 teaspoon of the mixture onto the leaf.
7.Wrap the leaf into a cylinder shape starting from the bottom and tucking in the sides.
8.Repeat until all the mixture is used up.
9.Place a layer of the leftover grape leaves at the bottom of a large pot.
10.Place the rolled-up grape leaves on top, tightly packed.
11.Pour enough water to cover the grape leaves, followed by the lemon juice and lemon salt.
12.Cover the pot and cook on medium heat for 30-40 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
13.Once cooked, let the dolma cool down in the pot for 10-15 minutes before serving.

PROS

Stuffed Vine Leaves provide various health benefits.

CONS

The preparation is time-consuming.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Stuffed Vine Leaves are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a healthy and filling option. The grape leaves contain antioxidants and are beneficial for digestion. The spices used in this recipe, such as cinnamon and allspice, have anti-inflammatory properties.
Rice is also a great source of energy and the pine nuts used in this recipe are rich in protein, Vitamin E, and magnesium.

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