Dolmádes
Greek Stuffed Grape Leaves
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 lb. ground lamb or ground beef*
- ½ cup finely chopped scallions
- ½ cup currants
- ½ cup pine nuts or chopped almonds
- 2 tbsp. fresh mint chopped (optional)
- ½ tsp. salt
- 2 tbsp. finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- 1 1- lb. jar grape leaves
- ⅓ cup lemon juice
- 1 10½- oz. can beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 3 lemons cut into wedges
Instructions
- Cook rice according to the directions on the package.
- In a large skillet, cook the lamb or beef over medium-high heat until browned, stirring to break it up into small pieces.
- Remove meat from heat, drain off fat, and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, meat, scallions, currants, nuts, mint, salt, parsley, and olive oil.
- Gently stir with a spoon.
- Drain grape leaves in a colander, rinse thoroughly in cool running water, and drain on paper towels.
- Use a sharp knife to cut stems off the leaves.
- Place 1 tsp.
- of the meat mixture on a grape leaf and fold as described on page 23.
- Repeat until all the filling is used.
- In a large saucepan, arrange the rolls in layers, seam-side down.
- Sprinkle 1 tbsp.
- of lemon juice over each layer.
- Pour any remaining lemon juice, beef broth, and water over the dolmádes.
- Place a heavy plate or baking dish on top to hold them in place while cooking.
- Cover the saucepan and cook over low heat for 1 hour.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Carefully remove the plate and drain off all cooking liquid.
Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:
Serve cold or at room temperature with lemon wedges.
Wine Advice:
Pair these flavorful Greek Stuffed Grape Leaves with a light and fruity Assyrtiko or a Pinot Noir. The wine’s acidity and subtle fruit notes will complement the savory filling of the dolmádes, creating a delightful dining experience. Cheers!
Nutritional Information
Calories: 80 kcal | Carbohydrates: 8 g | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 4 g | Fiber: 1 g | Sugar: 2 g