Vegan Stuffed Grape Leaves

Vegan Stuffed Grape Leaves are a delightful and flavorful appetizer that combines tender grape leaves with a savory filling of rice, herbs, and spices. Perfect for sharing, these rolls are both nutritious and satisfying, making them a great addition to any meal or gathering.

Ingredients

• Grape leaves - 12 large leaves
• Short-grain rice - 100 grams (1/2 cup)
• Onion - 1 small, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Fresh parsley - 30 grams, chopped
• Fresh dill - 15 grams, chopped
• Lemon juice - 30 ml (2 tablespoons)
• Olive oil - 30 ml (2 tablespoons)
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Vegetable broth - 240 ml (1 cup)
• Pine nuts - 30 grams (1/4 cup), toasted

Steps

1. Rinse the grape leaves under cold water to remove any brine and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir for 2 minutes to toast it lightly. Then, add the vegetable broth, salt, pepper, lemon juice, parsley, dill, and pine nuts. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
4. Remove the rice mixture from heat and let it cool slightly. Once cooled, mix well to combine all ingredients.
5. Prepare a large pot by placing a layer of leftover grape leaves or a towel at the bottom to prevent sticking.
6. Take one grape leaf and place it vein-side up. Add approximately 1 tablespoon of the rice filling at the base of the leaf. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the base to the tip. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
7. Place the stuffed grape leaves seam-side down in the prepared pot. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the top and add a splash of water to the pot.
8. Cover the pot with a lid and simmer on low heat for 30 minutes. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 4 g
• Carbs: 36 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in vitamins and minerals from grape leaves and herbs.
• High in fiber, promoting digestive health.

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