Zeytinyağlı Yaprak Sarma

Zeytinyağlı Yaprak Sarma is a traditional Turkish dish featuring grape leaves stuffed with a savory mixture of rice, herbs, and spices, all simmered in olive oil. This light yet flavorful meal is perfect for a vegetarian lunch, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Turkey.

Ingredients

• Grape leaves - 200 grams (about 20 leaves)
• Short-grain rice - 100 grams (1/2 cup)
• Onion - 1 medium (finely chopped)
• Fresh dill - 2 tablespoons (chopped)
• Fresh mint - 2 tablespoons (chopped)
• Tomato - 1 medium (grated)
• Olive oil - 4 tablespoons
• Lemon juice - 2 tablespoons
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Water - 300 milliliters

Steps

1. Rinse the grape leaves in cold water and set them aside to drain.
2. In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
3. Add the rice to the pan and stir for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to become slightly translucent.
4. Mix in the grated tomato, chopped dill, chopped mint, salt, and black pepper, then pour in 200 milliliters of water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Cook for 10 minutes until the rice is partially cooked. Remove from heat and let it cool.
5. Lay a grape leaf on a flat surface, vein side up, and place about a tablespoon of the rice mixture near the stem end. Fold the sides over the filling and roll it tightly to form a cylindrical shape. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
6. Place the rolled grape leaves seam side down in a pot. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and lemon juice, and add the rest of the water.
7. Cover the pot with a plate to keep the rolls submerged and simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes.
8. Remove from heat and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition

• Calories: 330
• Protein: 6 g
• Carbs: 52 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10.5 g
• Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

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

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