Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsPetra CafeGrape Leaves Platter Recipe

Grape Leaves Platter Recipe

Inspired by Petra Cafe
Time1h 30m
Serves6

Six rice and herb stuffed grape leaves in tomato sauce, served with your choice of side item

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Ingredients

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Grape Leaves Filling

Grape Leaves and Sauce

Method

Prepare the Filling

  1. 1

    Rinse the Rice

    In a fine mesh strainer, rinse the long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.

  2. 2

    Sauté Onions

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

  3. 3

    Mix Filling Ingredients

    In a large bowl, combine the rinsed rice, sautéed onions, chopped parsley, chopped dill, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Prepare Grape Leaves

  1. 4

    Prep Grape Leaves

    Carefully remove grape leaves from the jar and rinse them under cold water to remove excess brine. Pat dry with a paper towel.

  2. 5

    Stuff Grape Leaves

    Place a grape leaf on a clean surface, vein side up. Add about 1 tablespoon of the rice filling near the stem end of the leaf. Fold in the sides and roll tightly from the stem end to the tip. Repeat with remaining grape leaves and filling.

Cook the Grape Leaves

  1. 6

    Prepare the Sauce

    In a large pot, combine the tomato sauce, minced garlic, and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

  2. 7

    Arrange Stuffed Grape Leaves

    Place the stuffed grape leaves seam side down in the pot with the sauce. Ensure the leaves are tightly packed to prevent them from unraveling during cooking.

  3. 8

    Cook the Grape Leaves

    Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the grape leaves are tender.

Serve

  1. 9

    Plate the Dish

    Carefully remove the grape leaves from the pot and place them on a serving platter. Spoon some of the tomato sauce over the top.

  2. 10

    Add Side Items

    Serve the grape leaves with your choice of side items such as yogurt, pita bread, or cucumber salad.

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