Dolmades with Rice

Dolmades with Rice is a traditional Greek dish featuring vine leaves stuffed with a flavorful rice mixture, offering a delightful balance of herbs and spices. This light yet satisfying dish is perfect for a healthy meal or appetizer.

Ingredients

• Vine leaves - 200 grams
• Rice (short-grain) - 100 grams
• Onion (finely chopped) - 1 medium
• Garlic (minced) - 2 cloves
• Fresh dill (chopped) - 2 tablespoons
• Fresh parsley (chopped) - 2 tablespoons
• Mint (fresh, chopped) - 1 tablespoon
• Lemon juice - 2 tablespoons
• Olive oil - 3 tablespoons
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Vegetable broth - 250 ml

Steps

1. Soak the rice in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain.
2. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the soaked rice to the skillet and stir for another 2-3 minutes. Then, add the vegetable broth, salt, black pepper, dill, parsley, and mint. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. While the rice mixture cools, blanch the vine leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then rinse under cold water and drain.
5. Lay a vine leaf on a flat surface, with the stem end facing you. Place a tablespoon of the rice mixture near the base of the leaf, fold the sides over the filling, and then roll tightly from the base to the tip, forming a small parcel. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
6. In a large pot, arrange the stuffed vine leaves seam side down. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and lemon juice, then add enough water to cover the dolmades. Place a plate on top to keep them submerged.
7. Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes. Once cooked, let them cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 4 g
• Carbs: 38 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 360 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Water: 0.25 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in fiber from the rice and herbs, promoting digestive health.
• Packed with antioxidants from fresh herbs, supporting the immune system.

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