18 Greek Stuffed Grape Leaves Recipe Ignite Your Passion For Cooking!
Published on: Mar 31, 2024
When it comes to Greek cuisine, one dish that stands out for its unique flavors and textures is stuffed grape leaves. Also known as "dolmades," these bite-sized appetizers are a staple in Greek households and are often served as part of a meze platter. Made with tender grape leaves stuffed with a savory rice and herb mixture, this dish is not only delicious but also rich in cultural history. In this article, we will explore the traditional Greek stuffed grape leaves recipe and how you can easily recreate this mouth-watering dish at home.
Main Ingredients: Grape Leaves, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Garlic
If you're a fan of Greek cuisine, then you've probably heard of dolmades. These delicious stuffed grape leaves are a staple in Greek households and can be found on menus at many Greek restaurants. The word "dolma" means "stuffed" in Turkish, and these little parcels are traditionally filled with a flavorful mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes meat. They're perfect as an appetizer or as a main dish, and are sure to impress your dinner guests.
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Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmades)
Main Ingredients: Cucumber, Kosher Salt, Greek Yogurt, Ground Black
Stuffed grape leaves, or dolmades, can be found in many different cultures and cuisines. From Greece to Turkey to the Middle East, each region has its own unique take on this tasty dish. However, the Greek version is arguably the most well-known and loved. The combination of rice, herbs, and lemon juice gives these dolmades a bright and fresh flavor that is hard to resist.
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Dolmeh (Stuffed Grape Leaves)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Diced Yellow Onion, Scallions, Garlic
In Iran, stuffed grape leaves are known as dolmeh and are a popular dish during special occasions or celebrations. The Iranian version is typically filled with a mixture of ground beef, rice, and herbs such as dill and parsley. The dolmeh are then usually served with a tangy yogurt sauce for dipping.
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Greek Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolma)
Main Ingredients: Grape Leaves, Olive Oil, Finely Chopped Onions, White
Greek stuffed grape leaves, or dolma, are a classic dish that is loved by many. The traditional filling for these dolma is a combination of rice, herbs, and ground lamb or beef. However, there are also vegetarian versions that use a filling of only rice and herbs. The dolma are then steamed or baked and served with a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of flavor.
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Stuffed Grape Leaves with Cucumber-Yogurt Sauce
Main Ingredients: Grape Leaves, Salt, Tomatoes, Olive Oil, Large Yellow
If you're looking for a refreshing and light twist on stuffed grape leaves, try serving them with a cucumber-yogurt sauce. This cool and creamy sauce is the perfect accompaniment to the warm and flavorful dolmades. You can also add a sprinkle of sumac, a tangy and slightly fruity spice often used in Middle Eastern cuisine, for an extra burst of flavor.
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Arborio Rice, Tomato, Ground Allspice
In some Middle Eastern countries, stuffed grape leaves are often served alongside other stuffed vegetables, such as squash. This dish, known as warak dawali & koussa, is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for vegetarians. The grape leaves and squash are both filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, and spices, and then cooked together in a flavorful tomato sauce.
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Stuffed Grape Leaves
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Long Grain Rice, Yellow Onion, Dried Dill
Stuffed grape leaves are not just limited to Greek or Middle Eastern cuisine. In fact, you can find versions of this dish in many different countries, each with their own unique twist. For example, in the Balkans, stuffed grape leaves are known as sarma and are often filled with a mixture of rice, meat, and sometimes even dried fruits like currants or raisins. They are usually served with a dollop of sour cream on top.
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Mediterranean Stuffed Grape Leaves {Dolmas}
Main Ingredients: Brown Rice, Meat, Onion, Extra Virgin Olive Oil
The Mediterranean diet is known for being healthy and flavorful, and these stuffed grape leaves are no exception. This version, known as dolmas, is filled with a delicious mixture of rice, herbs, and chickpeas. The combination of protein-packed chickpeas and fiber-rich rice makes this dish both satisfying and nutritious.
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Greek Cauliflower Salad Bowls
Main Ingredients: Cauliflower Rice, Olive Oil, Minced Garlic, Fine Sea
If you're looking for a lighter version of dolmades, try making them with cauliflower instead of rice. These Greek cauliflower salad bowls are filled with a mixture of cauliflower, quinoa, and herbs, making them a perfect option for those following a low-carb or gluten-free diet. The bowls are then topped with a dollop of tangy tzatziki sauce for a burst of flavor.
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Greek Cauliflower Rice Pilaf Bowls
Main Ingredients: Head Cauliflower, Olive Oil, Garlic Powder, Fine Sea
Another delicious way to enjoy dolmades without the carbs is by making them with cauliflower rice. These Greek cauliflower rice pilaf bowls are filled with a flavorful mixture of cauliflower rice, herbs, and lentils. They are then topped with a sprinkle of feta cheese and a drizzle of olive oil for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
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Greek Dolmades With Cannelloni Beans
Main Ingredients: Cannellini Beans, Onion, Sea Salt, Bay Leaf, Olive Oil
If you're looking to add some protein to your dolmades, try filling them with cannelloni beans. This version of Greek dolmades uses a mixture of rice, herbs, and cannelloni beans to create a delicious and hearty filling. The dolmades are then topped with a savory tomato sauce and baked until tender and flavorful.
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Lemony Greek Dolmathes with Toasted Pine Nuts
Main Ingredients: Rice, Grape Leaves, Dried Dill, Fresh Dill, Fresh Mint
If you're a fan of the combination of sweet and savory flavors, then you'll love these lemony Greek dolmathes with toasted pine nuts. The addition of honey and lemon zest to the traditional filling gives these dolmades a unique and delicious twist. The toasted pine nuts add a satisfying crunch to each bite.
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Greek Salad Gyro Plate {restaurant diy}
Main Ingredients: Mixed Salad Greens, Meat, English Cucumber, Cherry
For a fun and creative way to enjoy dolmades, try turning them into a Greek salad gyro plate. This DIY version of the classic restaurant dish features dolmades, along with gyro meat, feta cheese, olives, and tzatziki sauce, all served on a bed of lettuce and tomatoes. It's a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for sharing with friends and family.
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Lebanese Stuffed Grape Leaves (Warak Enab)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Ground Beef, Salt, Spice, White Rice
In Lebanon, stuffed grape leaves are known as warak enab and are a popular dish during special occasions or holidays. The Lebanese version is often filled with a mixture of rice, meat, and spices, and is served with a tangy yogurt sauce for dipping. Some variations also include the addition of chickpeas for added protein.
Main Ingredients: Vine Leaves, Rice, Olive Oil, Onions, Warm Water
In Greece, dolmades are typically made with vine or grape leaves, giving them a unique and slightly tangy flavor. The traditional filling of rice, herbs, and meat or lamb is then wrapped in these leaves and steamed or baked until tender. They are then served with a sprinkle of oregano and a squeeze of lemon juice.
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Stuffed Grape Leaves… not dolmades!
Main Ingredients: Grape Leaves, Tomatoes, Beef, Fresh Parsley, Salt
While the terms "stuffed grape leaves" and "dolmades" are often used interchangeably, there is a slight difference between the two. While dolmades are typically made with a rice and herb filling, stuffed grape leaves can also be filled with a variety of ingredients, such as bulgur, chickpeas, or even meatballs. Regardless of the filling, these stuffed grape leaves are sure to be a hit at any gathering or meal.
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Dolmas (Stuffed Grape Leaves)
Main Ingredients: Grape Leaves, Yellow Onion, Garlic, Olive Oil, Long
In Turkey, stuffed grape leaves are known as dolmas and are a popular dish that can be found in many restaurants and homes. The Turkish version is typically filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, and spices, and is often served with a side of yogurt. Some variations also include the addition of pine nuts for added texture and flavor.
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Vegetarian Stuffed Grape Leaves
Main Ingredients: Grape Leaves, Short Grain Rice, Large Tomato, Parsley
For those who prefer a plant-based diet, there are many vegetarian versions of stuffed grape leaves that are just as delicious as their meat-filled counterparts. These vegetarian stuffed grape leaves are filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, and vegetables such as zucchini and bell peppers. They are then baked until tender and served with a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of flavor.
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Dolmas - Greek Stuffed Grape Leaves
Main Ingredients: Long Grain White Rice, Olive Oil, Yellow Onion, Green
The Greek version of stuffed grape leaves, or dolmas, is a classic dish that is loved by many. These dolmas are typically filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, and ground beef, and are then cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce. They are often served as an appetizer or as a main dish, and are perfect for sharing with friends and family.
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Greek Stuffed Grape Leaves With Rice and Herbs...
Main Ingredients: Grape Leaves, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Large White
For a simple and traditional take on dolmades, try making them with a filling of rice and herbs. These Greek stuffed grape leaves are filled with a flavorful combination of rice, dill, parsley, and mint. They are then steamed or baked until tender and served with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of oregano for a burst of flavor.
Preparing the Grape Leaves
Grape Leaves: Choosing the Right Ones
The first step in making Greek stuffed grape leaves is selecting the right grape leaves. You can either purchase preserved grape leaves in jars or use fresh ones if they are available. If using preserved leaves, make sure to rinse them well under cold water to remove any excess salt or brine. For fresh leaves, try to pick ones that are young and tender, as they are easier to work with and have a more delicate flavor.
Blanching: Softening the Leaves
To make the grape leaves more pliable and easier to roll, blanch them in boiling water for about one minute. This also helps to remove any bitterness from the leaves. Once blanched, remove them from the water and set them aside to cool while you prepare the filling.
Making the Filling
Rice: The Base of the Filling
The main ingredient of the filling is rice, and the type of rice used can greatly affect the taste and texture of the stuffed grape leaves. For the most authentic flavor, use short-grain rice, such as arborio or sushi rice. These types of rice have a higher starch content, which helps to bind the filling together and gives it a creamier texture.
Herbs and Spices: Adding Flavor and Aroma
The key to a delicious stuffed grape leaves recipe is the combination of herbs and spices. Along with rice, the filling typically includes fresh herbs like dill, parsley, and mint, as well as aromatic spices like cinnamon and allspice. These ingredients not only add a burst of flavor but also give the dish its distinctive Mediterranean aroma.
Rolling and Cooking the Grape Leaves
Rolling: A Labor of Love
Rolling grape leaves can be a time-consuming process, but it's also a labor of love. To make the process easier, place a spoonful of the filling in the center of the grape leaf and roll it tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. This will ensure that the filling stays securely inside the leaf while cooking.
Cooking: Slow and Steady Wins the Race
Once all the grape leaves are rolled, place them in a pot, seam side down, and cover them with chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the broth to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the grape leaves simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked. Serve them warm as a delicious appetizer or side dish, and enjoy the unique flavors and textures of this traditional Greek dish.
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