How to Make Dolmas (Stuffed Grape Leaves) - A Step-by-Step Guide

Originating from the Middle East, dolmas are a delicious and savory dish that has gained widespread popularity across the Mediterranean region and beyond. These delectable stuffed grape leaves are filled with a flavorful mixture of seasoned rice, minced meat, herbs, and spices, creating a symphony of flavors with every bite.

The process of making dolmas is a labor of love, as each grape leaf is carefully filled and rolled to perfection. The result is a dish that is not only incredibly ...

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Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 onions, minced
  • 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice
  • 1 1/2 cups hot water, or as needed to cover
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons dried currants
  • 2 tablespoons pine nuts
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon dried mint
  • 1 tablespoon dried dill weed
  • 1 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 (8 ounce) jar grape leaves, drained and rinsed in warm water

Information

  • Prep Time: 30 mins
  • Cook Time: 45 mins
  • Additional Time: 15 mins
  • Total Time: 1 hr 30 mins
  • Servings: 8

  • Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in rice, then add enough hot water to cover. Cover and simmer until rice is halfway cooked, about 10 minutes.
  • Remove from the heat and stir in tomato paste, currants, pine nuts, cinnamon, mint, dill, allspice, and cumin. Let mixture cool, about 15 minutes.
  • Prepare a large pot by placing an inverted plate on the bottom; this will protect the dolmas from direct heat during steaming.
  • Cut off and discard any grape leaf stems. Place about 1 teaspoon cooled rice mixture into the center of a leaf. Fold in the sides, then roll into a cigar shape. Place into the prepared pot. Repeat to make remaining dolmas.
  • Pour in just enough warm water to reach the bottom of the first layer of dolmas. Cover and simmer over low heat for 30 to 45 minutes, or until rice is totally cooked. Check the water level often and add more as necessary.
  • Nutrition

    207 cal.

    • Total Fat: 4g
    • Saturated Fat: 1g
    • Sodium: 847mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 39g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2g
    • Total Sugars: 4g
    • Protein: 5g
    • Vitamin C: 6mg
    • Calcium: 125mg
    • Iron: 3mg
    • Potassium: 190mg