Dolmades Stuffed Grape Leaves

Dolmades are delicious stuffed grape leaves that combine savory rice and herb filling, making for a delightful Greek BBQ dish. These Halal-friendly bites are perfect as an appetizer or main dish, bursting with flavor and tradition.

Dolmades Stuffed Grape Leaves
60 minutes
Difficulty: Medium
Greek
320 kcal

Ingredients

  • Grape leaves - 200 grams (approximately 20 leaves)
  • Long-grain rice - 100 grams (1/2 cup)
  • Ground lamb or beef - 100 grams
  • Onion - 1 medium, 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
  • Water or chicken broth - 250 ml (1 cup)

Steps

  1. In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the ground lamb or beef to the pan, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the rice, parsley, dill, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
  4. Lay the grape leaves flat on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling at the base of each leaf, fold in the sides, and roll tightly from the base to the tip. Repeat until all filling is used.
  5. In a large pot, arrange the dolmades seam-side down. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and pour the water or chicken broth over them. Place a plate on top to keep them submerged.
  6. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for about 30-35 minutes until the rice is tender and the leaves are cooked through.
  7. Remove from heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with lemon wedges.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 18 g
  • Carbs: 35 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg
  • Total Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Water: 0.25 L

Health Benefits

  • Rich in antioxidants from grape leaves and herbs, which may reduce inflammation.
  • Provides a good source of protein and essential nutrients from the lamb and rice.

Tags

GreekHalalBBQ