Dolmádes

Greek Stuffed Grape Leaves
Portions:45 dolmádes
Preparation Time: 35 minutes
Cooking Time:1 hour
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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
  • 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
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Course Appetizer / Beef / Lamb / Rice
Cuisine Greece