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Stuffed Grape Leaves

Stuffed grape leaves are a classic Mediterranean dish that combines rice, herbs, and spices, creating an impressive culinary experience.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 24 rolls
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 65

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 1 cup short-grain rice
  • 1/2 cup finely diced onion
  • 3 tablespoons fresh mint finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts lightly toasted and chopped
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
For Assembly and Cooking
  • 1 jar 16 ounces grape leaves in brine
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 1/2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon for stirring
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Kitchen shears (optional but helpful)
  • Shallow baking dish or skillet with lid
  • Paper towels
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat and add the finely diced onion. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and softens.
  2. Add the rice to the pan and stir constantly for 2 minutes.
  3. Pour 1 1/2 cups of broth into the pan and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in fresh mint, dill, parsley, pine nuts, salt, pepper, allspice, and cayenne pepper.
  5. Drain grape leaves and rinse them under cool water.
  6. Lay out a clean work surface and arrange your grape leaves and filling.
  7. Place one grape leaf shiny side down with the stem end pointing toward you. Put about 1 tablespoon of filling near the stem end, fold the sides inward, then roll tightly.
  8. Place rolled grape leaves seam side down in a shallow baking dish.
  9. Mix 1 1/2 cups broth with 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice and pour over the grape leaf rolls.
  10. Cover the baking dish and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 35 minutes.
  11. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Stuffed grape leaves taste even better the next day.