Ingredients and Weight:
- Grape leaves (fresh or jarred): 1 pound (454 grams)
- Short-grain white rice: 1 cup (185 grams)
- Olive oil: 1/2 cup (120 milliliters)
- Onion (medium, chopped): 1 (120 grams)
- Garlic (minced): 4 cloves (12 grams)
- Mint (fresh, chopped): 1/2 cup (15 grams)
- Parsley (fresh, chopped): 1/2 cup (15 grams)
- Dill (fresh, chopped): 1/4 cup (7.5 grams)
- Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters)
- Salt and pepper: to taste
Preparation Time:
Cooking Time:
Difficulty Level:
Preparation Method Steps:
- If using fresh grape leaves, blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- In a large bowl, combine the rice, olive oil, onion, garlic, mint, parsley, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Place a grape leaf onto a flat surface, vein side facing up. Place a heaping tablespoon of the rice mixture in the center of the leaf.
- Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll up tightly starting from the stem. Tuck in the ends to seal.
- Repeat until all the filling and leaves are used up.
- Add 1 inch of water and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the bottom of a large pot or Dutch oven.
- Arrange the dolmathes tightly in the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the grape leaves are soft.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 240 per serving
- Fat: 10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 38 grams
- Protein: 6 grams
- Dietary fiber: 2 grams
Dish Characteristics:
- Savory and flavorful
- Delicate and tender grape leaves
- Aromatic herbs and spices
- Versatile side dish or appetizer
User Comments:
- "These dolmathes were absolutely delicious! The grape leaves were perfectly tender, and the filling was full of flavor."
- "I've tried dolmathes before, but these were by far the best. The herbs really made them special."
- "I served these as an appetizer at a party, and they were a huge hit! Everyone loved them."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- If you can't find fresh grape leaves, you can use jarred grape leaves instead. Be sure to rinse them thoroughly before using.
- If you don't have a Dutch oven, you can use a large pot with a lid.
- Serve dolmathes warm or cold, with a side of lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
