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Ντολμάδες (Dolmades)

Greek1 Hour
Punchline

Experience the deliciousness of Dolmades tonight and take a trip to Greece without leaving your kitchen!

ingredients
grape leaves30pieces
rice1cup
onion1
olive oil1/4cup
parsley1/2cup
dill2tablespoons
lemon juice1/2cup
salt1teaspoon
pepper1/2teaspoon
instructions
    1

    Start by rinsing the grape leaves under cold water. If they are packed in salt, soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes to remove excess salt. Drain and set aside.

    2

    In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

    3

    Add the rice to the pan and stir together for another 2 minutes until the rice is coated and slightly toasted.

    4

    Stir in the parsley, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined, then remove from heat and let it cool for about 10 minutes.

    5

    Take 1 grape leaf and place 1-2 tablespoons of the rice mixture at the bottom of the leaf. Fold in the sides and roll tightly from the stem end to the tip to form a small package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

    6

    In a large pot, line the bottom with any leftover grape leaves to prevent sticking. Arrange the dolmades seam side down in a single layer.

    7

    Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the top and add enough water to cover the dolmades. Place a plate on top to weigh them down and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook on low heat for about 45 minutes until the rice is tender.

    8

    Once cooked, let them cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings

6

How to be creative
  • Try using quinoa instead of rice for added nutrition and a unique flavor.
  • Add ground meat like lamb or beef to the filling for a heartier option.
  • Serve with a homemade tzatziki sauce for a refreshing dip.
Important Tips
  • Make sure to squeeze out the excess liquid from the grape leaves if they are packed in brine to avoid an overly salty dish.
  • Experiment with different herbs in the filling such as mint or oregano for varied flavors.
  • Serve warm or allow to cool down and enjoy them cold as a perfect summer appetizer.
nutritions
  • fat: 4g
  • fiber: 3g
  • protein: 4g
  • calories: 150
  • carbohydrates: 28g
Health impact

Dolmades are a healthy choice as they are low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with fresh herbs and wholesome ingredients, contributing to better digestion and overall health.