Dolmades Yialantzi

Dolmades Yialantzi are a delightful Greek dish consisting of vine leaves stuffed with a fragrant mixture of rice, herbs, and vegetables. This vegetarian version is both refreshing and satisfying, perfect for a light meal or appetizer.

Ingredients

• Vine leaves - 200 grams
• Short-grain rice - 100 grams
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Fresh parsley - 30 grams, chopped
• Fresh dill - 20 grams, chopped
• Tomato - 1 medium, grated
• Olive oil - 3 tablespoons
• Lemon juice - 2 tablespoons
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Water - 300 milliliters

Steps

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in warm water for 15 minutes.
2. In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
3. Drain the rice and add it to the pan with the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir for a couple of minutes.
4. Add the grated tomato, chopped parsley, dill, salt, and black pepper to the rice mixture. Stir well to combine, then remove from heat.
5. Carefully separate the vine leaves and rinse them if they are brined. Place a leaf, shiny side down, on a flat surface.
6. Add about 1 tablespoon of the rice mixture at the base of the vine leaf. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the base to the tip.
7. Repeat this process with the remaining vine leaves and filling.
8. In a large pot, layer any leftover vine leaves at the bottom. Place the stuffed dolmades seam side down in a single layer. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and lemon juice.
9. Pour in the water until it just covers the dolmades. Place a plate on top to keep them submerged while cooking.
10. Cover the pot and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 30-40 minutes until the rice is tender.
11. Serve warm or at room temperature, drizzled with extra lemon juice if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 6 g
• Carbs: 54 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants from the fresh herbs and tomatoes.
• High in fiber, promoting digestive health.

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