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Ingredients
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Grape Leaves
Stuffing
Method
Preparation of Stuffing
- 1
Cook Rice
In a medium saucepan, add 1 cup of short-grain rice and 2 cups of water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender. Remove from heat and let cool.
- 2
Prepare Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, 0.5 pound of ground lamb or beef, 1 finely chopped medium onion, 0.5 cup of chopped fresh parsley, 0.25 cup of chopped fresh dill, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 0.5 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
Rolling the Grape Leaves
- 3
Prepare Grape Leaves
If using canned grape leaves, rinse them under cold water to remove excess brine. If using fresh grape leaves, blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until tender, then cool in ice water.
- 4
Roll Grape Leaves
Lay a grape leaf on a clean surface, vein side up. Place about 1 tablespoon of the stuffing mixture near the stem end of the leaf. Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly from the stem end towards the tip, forming a small cylinder. Repeat with remaining leaves and stuffing.
Cooking the Grape Leaves
- 5
Prepare Cooking Pot
In a large pot, arrange any leftover grape leaves at the bottom to prevent sticking. Place the rolled grape leaves seam side down in the pot in a circular pattern.
- 6
Add Liquid and Cook
Drizzle 3 tablespoons of olive oil over the grape leaves and add enough water or broth to cover them. Place a plate over the grape leaves to keep them submerged. Cover the pot with a lid and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 45-60 minutes until the leaves are tender and the stuffing is cooked through.
- 7