Yaprach (Stuffed Grape Leaves)

May 08, 2023May 8, 20230 2
Yaprach, the Traditional Stuffed Grape Leaves Recipe
in Appetizer

Prep

40 min

Cook

50 min

Ready In

90 min

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

3 cups rice
1 medium onion , chopped
1/2 package fresh coriander , chopped
1 small tomatoes , chopped or grated
1 teaspoon citric acid
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 pinch black pepper , or to taste if you like it hotter
1 can tomato paste
1 jar pickled grape leaves

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
8
Calories
258
Sugar
1g
Fat
0.4g
Yaprach is one of the most popular dishes in the Middle East and the Mediterranean, and its variations can be found throughout the region - Olive oil, lemon, and mint are commonly added to the filling - the filling may also include minced meat. This recipe is a classic vegetarian version, and it’s perfect as an appetizer, side dish to go with other meals, or a full meal itself. Yaprach has been popular for centuries, and it is commonly served during celebrations and family gatherings. The dish has traveled to different parts of the world, each destination adding a new twist to the recipe.

Instructions

1.Rinse the rice with cold water for a couple of times to clean off excess starch. Leave the rice in a bowl filled with water for half an hour to soften.
2.In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened rice, chopped onions, fresh coriander, tomatoes, citric acid, salt, black pepper, tomato paste. Mix until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
3.Drain the pickled grape leaves and rinse with cold water to get rid of the saltiness. Spread the leaves out on a board or clean surface, shiny side down, with the stem towards you.
4.Place a small spoon of the rice mixture in the center of the leaf. Starting from the bottom, roll the leaf over the mixture, then fold the sides in as you roll. Make sure to roll tightly, but not too much, as the rice will need room to expand as it cooks.
5.Place the stuffed grape leaves tightly, side by side in a pot with a tight-fitting lid. Pour enough water to the pot to cover the rolls.
6.Top the rolls with an overturned dish to keep them from unraveling, Cover the pot, and bring to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 50 minutes or until the rice is cooked through.
7.Once cooked, let the stuffed grape leaves cool down and then serve.

PROS

Yaprach is a perfect appetizer, Its flavor is tangy, salty, and amazingly satisfying.
Plus, it could be served hot or cold, so it’s great for gatherings or small intimate dinners.

CONS

While it’s not a difficult or elaborate recipe, rolling the grape leaves can take some practice and time.
As well, the nutritional profile of the dish depends on the portions which are eaten.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Yaprach is a rich source of fiber, plant-based protein, and other nutrients such as Vitamin C, vitamin K, and iron.
Grape leaves are high in antioxidants.
Rice, the main ingredient in Yaprach, is a great source of carbohydrates, which gives the body the energy it needs throughout the day.

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