Description
Grape leaves are a culinary delight, wrapping flavorful fillings in tender, vine-kissed parcels. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into an exquisite dish that’s perfect for sharing at gatherings or savoring at home. With a customizable filling and aromatic spices, these grape leaves promise to impress your family and friends. Whether served warm or at room temperature, they offer a unique flavor experience that has been cherished across cultures for centuries.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 jar (16 oz) grape leaves
- 1 cup medium-grain rice
- 8 oz ground beef or lamb (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Rinse jarred grape leaves under cold water; if using fresh, blanch briefly in boiling water until tender.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion until translucent. Stir in rice, ground meat (if using), herbs, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Lay a grape leaf flat with the stem facing you. Place about one tablespoon of filling near the base of the leaf. Fold in sides and roll tightly like a burrito.
- Arrange rolled grape leaves seam-side down in a pot. Add enough water to cover them halfway and drizzle with olive oil; place a plate on top to weigh them down while cooking.
- Cover and simmer over low heat for 45–60 minutes until rice is tender and flavors meld beautifully.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed grape leaf (50g)
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg