Delicious Vegetarian Stuffed Grape Leaves Recipe

If you’re looking for a healthy and flavorful dish, vegetarian stuffed grape leaves are an excellent choice. These delightful bites, also known as dollys or yalanji, originated from Mediterranean cuisine and have become a beloved vegetarian option worldwide. Packed with fresh ingredients and a burst of flavor, they are a perfect appetizer or side dish for any gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 jar of grape leaves (about 16 oz), rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup of rice (jasmine or basmati works well)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 large tomato, diced
  • 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup of fresh dill, chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup of olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Vegetable broth or water, for cooking

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until the onion becomes translucent.
  2. Add the rice and stir for an additional minute, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
  3. Stir in the diced tomato, parsley, dill (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and remove from heat.
  4. Lay a grape leaf on a flat surface, vein side up. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling at the base of the leaf. Fold in the sides and roll it up tightly.
  5. Repeat this process with the remaining grape leaves and filling.
  6. In a large pot, layer any leftover grape leaves on the bottom. Place the stuffed grape leaves seam side down in the pot. Drizzle with remaining olive oil and add enough vegetable broth or water to cover them.
  7. Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your vegetarian stuffed grape leaves warm or at room temperature, drizzled with additional lemon juice and a side of yogurt or tahini for dipping. These delightful bites are not only tasty but also make for an impressive dish at your next gathering or family dinner.

Enjoy creating and sharing this vegetarian stuffed grape leaves recipe with your loved ones, and savor the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine right at home!


Ingredients:
1 jar of grape leaves (about 16 oz), 1 cup of rice, 1 large onion, 2 cloves of garlic, 1 large tomato, 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, 1/4 cup of fresh dill, 1/4 cup of olive oil, Juice of 1 lemon, Salt and pepper, Vegetable broth or water

Tags:
vegetarian recipes, stuffed grape leaves, dolmas, yalanji, mediterranean recipes, vegetarian appetizers, vegetarian side dishes, rice recipes, grape leaves recipe, healthy recipes, flavorful recipes