Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsKosta's Restaurant and BarStuffed Grape Leaves Recipe

Stuffed Grape Leaves Recipe

Time1h 30m
Serves6

Grape leaves stuffed with rice and herbs.

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Ingredients

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Filling

Grape Leaves

Cooking Liquid

Method

Preparation of Filling

  1. 1

    Cook the Rice

    In a medium saucepan, combine the long-grain rice with 1 cup of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

  2. 2

    Sauté the Onion

    In a skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once heated, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.

  3. 3

    Mix the Filling

    In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed onion, chopped parsley, chopped mint, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Stuffing the Grape Leaves

  1. 4

    Prepare the Grape Leaves

    Lay a grape leaf, vein side up, on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling near the stem end of the leaf.

  2. 5

    Roll the Grape Leaves

    Fold the sides of the grape leaf over the filling and roll it tightly away from you to create a small cylinder. Repeat this process for all grape leaves and filling.

Cooking the Stuffed Grape Leaves

  1. 6

    Arrange the Stuffed Leaves

    In a large pot, arrange the stuffed grape leaves seam side down in a single layer. If needed, pack them closely together.

  2. 7

    Prepare the Cooking Liquid

    In a bowl, mix together 1.5 cups of water, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Pour this mixture over the arranged stuffed grape leaves.

  3. 8

    Cook the Grape Leaves

    Cover the pot with a lid and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and cook for about 45 minutes, or until the grape leaves are tender.

  4. 9

    Serve

    Once cooked, let the stuffed grape leaves cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature, drizzled with additional olive oil and lemon juice if desired.

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