Dolmas-Grape Leaves Stuffed With Fragrant Rice

Name: Dolmas-Grape Leaves Stuffed With Fragrant Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups water; salt; 1 cup long grain white rice (or use long grain brown rice); 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (preferably fresh ground); 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 lemon, zest and juice of (about 2 tbls. juice); 1/4 cup dried currant (or use raisins); 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts; black pepper (or a 5 pepper mixture); 20 -25 grape leaves packed in brine; extra virgin olive oil

Servings: persons

2 cups water
salt
1 cup long grain white rice (or use long grain brown rice)
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (preferably fresh ground)
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 lemon, zest and juice of (about 2 tbls. juice)
1/4 cup dried currant (or use raisins)
1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
black pepper (or a 5 pepper mixture)
20 -25 grape leaves packed in brine
extra virgin olive oil

1
Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan; add 1 teaspoons salt, then stir in the rice, cinnamon, sugar, butter, and lemon zest. Allow pot to return to a boil, then cover and cook over low heat until the rice is just tender, 15-20 minutes(a littlemore for brown rice). The rice should be slightly undercooked at this point, since it will cook a little more when the dolmas steam.
2
Move the rice to a bowl and, while it is still hot, toss with the currants(or raisins), pine nuts, and lemon juice. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
3
Rinse and drain the grape leaves, pat them dry, and snip off the stems; spread them out on a work surface. Pack 1 tbls. rice in your hands to compress it and place in the center of each grape leaf. Fold in the bottom and the two sides, then roll toward the top until the entire grape leaf has been rolled.
4
Brush the dolmas lightly with a little olive oil and set in a steamer basket. Place the steamer over boiling water, cover, and steam for 3-5 minutes, until heated through.
5
Serve warm or at room temperature.

625

kcal

Calories

Fat

130

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.
Leave out the nuts to make it nut-free, or swap in seeds for a similar crunch.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 12 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 2 cups water, salt, 1 cup long grain white rice (or use long grain brown rice), 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (preferably fresh ground), and more.

Yes, Dolmas-Grape Leaves Stuffed With Fragrant Rice falls under the General category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!