Swiss chard dolma is a popular Middle Eastern dish that is both delicious and nutritious. This stuffed vegetable dish is traditionally made with grape leaves, but in this recipe, we will be using swiss chard leaves for a unique twist. The combination of flavorful rice, herbs, and minced meat make for a mouth-watering filling that pairs perfectly with the tender swiss chard leaves. Follow this easy recipe to create a dish that will impress your family and friends at your next gathering.
Main Ingredients: Swiss Chard, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Garlic Cloves
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Swiss Chard Leaves
To begin, wash the swiss chard leaves and remove the stems. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the leaves for 2-3 minutes until they are pliable. Remove them from the boiling water and shock them in ice water to stop the cooking process. Pat the leaves dry with a paper towel and set them aside.
2. Make the Filling
In a bowl, mix together 1 cup of cooked rice, 1/2 pound of ground beef (or lamb), 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh dill, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh mint, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of ground allspice, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Stuff the Swiss Chard Leaves
Place a swiss chard leaf on a flat surface and add a spoonful of the filling at the base of the leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf in and roll it up tightly. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
4. Cook the Dolma
In a pot, arrange the stuffed swiss chard leaves in a single layer. Pour in enough water to cover the dolma and add 1 tablespoon of tomato paste. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once the dolma is cooked through, remove it from the pot and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the swiss chard dolma hot with a dollop of plain yogurt on top and a sprinkle of sumac for an extra tangy flavor. Enjoy this delicious and healthy dish as an appetizer or main course.