Kurdish Dolma Grape Leaves Delight (Printable)

Enjoy flavorful Kurdish dolma filled with herbed rice, perfect for gatherings.

# Ingredient list:

→ For the Filling

01 - 1 cup 200 g long-grain rice, rinsed
02 - 1 large onion, finely chopped
03 - 1 cup 25 g fresh parsley, finely chopped
04 - 1/2 cup 10 g fresh dill, chopped
05 - 1/2 cup 10 g fresh mint, chopped
06 - 2 medium tomatoes, finely diced
07 - 1/4 cup 60 ml olive oil
08 - 1 tsp ground allspice
09 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
10 - 1 1/2 tsp salt
11 - Juice of 1 lemon

→ For Assembling & Cooking

12 - 1 jar about 300 g grape leaves in brine, rinsed
13 - 1 cup 240 ml vegetable stock or water
14 - 2 tbsp olive oil
15 - Juice of 1 lemon
16 - Slices from 1 large tomato or potato to line the bottom of the pan

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large bowl, combine rice, onion, parsley, dill, mint, tomatoes, olive oil, allspice, pepper, salt, and lemon juice. Mix well.
02 - Lay each grape leaf shiny side down. Place 1–2 teaspoons of filling at the stem end. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly into a cigar shape.
03 - Line the bottom of a heavy saucepan with tomato or potato slices to prevent sticking.
04 - Arrange the stuffed grape leaves seam side down, tightly packed, in layers in the saucepan.
05 - Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Pour in stock or water to almost cover the dolmas.
06 - Place a heatproof plate on top to prevent unrolling. Cover with a lid.
07 - Bring to a gentle simmer. Cook over low heat for 45–50 minutes, until leaves are tender and rice is cooked.
08 - Let cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature, with yogurt if desired.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Delicate grape leaves filled with aromatic, herbed rice for a light yet satisfying dish.
  • Vegetarian and gluten-free option suitable for diverse dietary needs.
  • Perfect as a main dish or part of a mezze platter to share with friends and family.
  • Layered flavors of fresh herbs, spices, and lemon brighten each bite.
02 -
  • Rinse the grape leaves thoroughly to reduce the saltiness from the brine.
  • Use a heavy saucepan and low heat to ensure even, gentle cooking that keeps the dolmas intact.
  • Applying a plate as weight on top prevents the rolls from unravelling during simmering.
  • Adjust lemon juice to your preferred tanginess for freshness balance.
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