A traditional Greek recipe for dolmades, vine leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs and sometimes meat. These delicious morsels are perfect for an aperitif or as an accompaniment to a Mediterranean meal, bringing an authentic, refined flavor.
Blanching grape leaves: If you're using canned grape leaves, rinse them well to remove excess salt. If fresh, blanch in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and leave to cool.
Prepare the stuffing: In a frying pan, sauté the onion and garlic in 2 tablespoons of olive oil until golden. Add the rice, minced meat (if using), parsley, mint, dill, salt, pepper and cumin. Cook over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice begins to turn translucent.
Stuff grape leaves: Lay a grape leaf out, shiny side down. Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of the leaf. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly, forming a small bundle. Repeat with the remaining leaves and stuffing.
Cooking the dolmades: Layer the dolmades tightly in a saucepan. Drizzle with remaining olive oil and lemon juice. Add water until the dolmades are half-covered. Cover with a lid or plate to keep them in place.
Low heat: Cook over low heat for 45 minutes, until the grape leaves are tender and the rice is cooked. Add water if necessary to prevent the dolmades from drying out.
Let stand: Remove from the heat and let the dolmades cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
Serving: 4dolmadesCalories: 200kcal
Keyword authentic Greek dolmades, Dolmades, dolmades with rice and herbs, grape leaf rolls, Greek appetizer with vine leaves, Greek dolmades, Greek meze with vine leaves, homemade dolma, how to make dolmades, meat stuffed dolmades, Mediterranean stuffed leaves, stuffed vine leaves, traditional dolmades, vegetarian dolmades