Stuffed Grape Leaves

Stuffed Grape Leaves are a traditional Lebanese breakfast dish that combines tangy grape leaves with a delicious, herby rice filling. This vegan version is not only flavorful but also a wholesome way to start your day.

Ingredients

• Grape leaves - 20 pieces (jarred or fresh)
• Short-grain rice - 100 grams
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Fresh parsley - 30 grams, finely chopped
• Fresh mint - 15 grams, finely chopped
• Tomato - 1 medium, diced
• Lemon juice - 2 tablespoons
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon
• Water - 250 milliliters

Steps

1. Rinse the grape leaves in cold water to remove excess salt if using jarred ones, and set aside.
2. In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the rice to the pan and stir for 2 minutes to toast it slightly, then add the diced tomato, parsley, mint, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and cinnamon. Stir to combine and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Remove the pan from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
5. Lay a grape leaf flat on a clean surface, with the stem facing you. Place a tablespoon of the filling at the base of the leaf and fold in the sides, then roll it up tightly to form a neat cylinder. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
6. In a large pot, place the stuffed grape leaves seam-side down. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and add water until the leaves are just covered.
7. Place a plate on top of the stuffed leaves to keep them submerged and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cover and cook for about 30-40 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and the leaves are tender.
8. Once cooked, let them sit for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 5 g
• Carbs: 48 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Water: 0.25 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants from grape leaves and herbs.
• High in fiber due to rice and vegetables, promoting digestive health.

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