Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsSamos RestaurantDolma Recipe

Dolma Recipe

Inspired by Samos Restaurant
Time1h 30m
Serves4

Grape leaves stuffed with rice and herbs.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Filling

Grape Leaves

Cooking Liquid

Method

Preparation of Filling

  1. 1

    Cook the Rice

    In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the long-grain rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let cool.

  2. 2

    Sauté the Onion

    In a skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

  3. 3

    Mix the Filling

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rice, sautéed onion, chopped parsley, dill, mint, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Preparing the Grape Leaves

  1. 4

    Prepare Grape Leaves

    If using jarred grape leaves, rinse them under cold water to remove excess brine. If using fresh leaves, blanch them in boiling water for about 2 minutes until softened. Drain and let cool.

Rolling the Dolma

  1. 5

    Roll the Dolma

    Lay a grape leaf flat on a clean surface, vein side up. Place 1-2 tablespoons of the filling near the stem end of the leaf. Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly from the stem end to the tip. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

Cooking the Dolma

  1. 6

    Arrange in Pot

    In a large pot, arrange the rolled dolma seam side down in a single layer. Place lemon slices on top and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.

  2. 7

    Add Cooking Liquid

    Pour the vegetable broth over the dolma until just covered. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then cover and cook on low heat for about 40-45 minutes, until the leaves are tender.

Serving

  1. 8

    Serve

    Let the dolma cool slightly before serving. They can be served warm or at room temperature, drizzled with additional olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.

More from Samos Restaurant