Vegan Stuffed Grape Leaves

Vegan Stuffed Grape Leaves is a delightful Lebanese dish that combines seasoned rice and vegetables wrapped in tender grape leaves, offering a burst of flavor in every bite. This healthy, plant-based dish is perfect for a light meal or appetizer, showcasing the traditional tastes of Lebanese cuisine.

Ingredients

• Grape leaves - 200 grams (about 30 leaves)
• Long-grain rice - 100 grams (1/2 cup)
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Tomato - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Fresh parsley - 30 grams, chopped
• Fresh mint - 15 grams, chopped
• Olive oil - 30 ml (2 tablespoons)
• Lemon juice - 30 ml (2 tablespoons)
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Allspice - 1/2 teaspoon
• Vegetable broth - 300 ml (1 1/4 cups)

Steps

1. Rinse the grape leaves in cold water and soak them in hot water for 10 minutes to soften. Drain and set aside.
2. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped tomato, salt, black pepper, and allspice to the pan, cooking for another 5 minutes until the tomato softens.
4. Stir in the rice, parsley, and mint, mixing well. Cook for 2 minutes before adding 200 ml of vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and cover. Cook for 15 minutes until rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Take a grape leaf and place a spoonful of the rice mixture at the base. Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly from the base to the tip. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
6. In a large pot, arrange the stuffed grape leaves seam-side down. Pour the remaining vegetable broth and lemon juice over them. Place a heavy plate on top to keep them submerged and bring to a simmer.
7. Cover and cook on low heat for about 30-40 minutes until the leaves are tender and the rice is fully cooked.
8. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with additional lemon juice if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 4 g
• Carbs: 35 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

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

Tags