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Olivia

Vegetarian Dolmades (Stuffed Grape Leaves)

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Vegetarian dolmades are grape leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, lemon, and olive oil for a classic Mediterranean plant-based dish.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 -6
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Filling
  • 1 cup short-grain rice rinsed
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley finely chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh dill or mint chopped
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Wrapping & Cooking
  • 1 jar grape leaves about 40 leaves, rinsed
  • 2-3 cups water or vegetable broth
  • Lemon slices optional

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, combine rice, onion, herbs, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  2. Mix well.
  3. Prepare the Leaves
  4. Lay a grape leaf shiny side down.
  5. Trim thick stems if needed.
  6. Roll the Dolmades
  7. Place 1 teaspoon filling near the stem end.
  8. Fold sides inward and roll tightly, like a small cigar.
  9. Repeat until filling is used.
  10. Arrange & Cook
  11. Line the bottom of a pot with a few grape leaves or lemon slices.
  12. Place dolmades seam-side down, packed snugly in layers.
  13. Simmer
  14. Add water or broth until just covered.
  15. Drizzle with olive oil.
  16. Cover with a plate to keep rolls in place.
  17. Simmer gently 40–45 minutes, until rice is tender.
  18. Cool & Serve
  19. Let cool slightly.
  20. Serve warm or chilled with lemon wedges.

Notes

Extra flavor: add pine nuts or currants
Grow-it-yourself: herbs like parsley, dill, and mint are easy to grow
Make ahead: tastes better the next day
Serve with: salad, hummus, or yogurt-based dip

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