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Vegan Dolmas (Stuffed Grape Leaves)

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Vegan dolmas, or stuffed grape leaves, are a traditional Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dish featuring tender grape leaves filled with a savory mix of rice, herbs, and spices. They are typically served cold with lemon wedges and make for a flavorful appetizer or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 jar (16 oz) grape leaves in brine, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup long-grain rice (uncooked)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 1/4 cup currants or raisins
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
  • Juice of 2 lemons (plus more for serving)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth

Instructions

  1. Rinse grape leaves under cold water to remove brine and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
  3. Add rice, pine nuts, and currants. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
  4. Add 1 cup water or broth, reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is partially cooked (about 10 minutes). Remove from heat.
  5. Stir in parsley, mint, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Let filling cool slightly.
  6. Lay grape leaves flat, shiny side down. Place 1–2 teaspoons of filling in the center, fold sides over, and roll tightly.
  7. Place dolmas seam-side down in a pot, layering them tightly together.
  8. Pour remaining 1 cup water or broth and a drizzle of olive oil over the dolmas. Place a heatproof plate on top to keep them submerged.
  9. Cover and simmer on low heat for 40–50 minutes, or until grape leaves are tender and filling is fully cooked.
  10. Cool to room temperature and refrigerate. Serve chilled or at room temperature with lemon wedges.

Notes

  • Use fresh grape leaves if available; blanch them before using.
  • Let the dolmas rest overnight for better flavor development.
  • Can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: vegan dolmas, stuffed grape leaves, Mediterranean appetizer, rice stuffing, grape leaf wraps

Find it online: https://zesticook.com/vegan-dolmas-stuffed-grape-leaves/