Grape Leaves Stuffed with Lamb and Rice Sausage

1. 1

   Working in batches according to the size of your space, lay the grape leaves, smooth side down and with the stem end facing you, on a work surface, and trim off the stems with a sharp paring knife or scissors.

2. 2

   Place about 1 tablespoon of the stuffing in the center of each leaf.

3. 3

   Fold each side of the bottom up over the stuffing, roll up the leaf a half turn, and then fold the sides in toward the center.

4. 4

   Continue rolling to the top to make a tight, neat cylinder.

5. 5

   Pack the rolled leaves in a large pot, tucking them together to make a tight layer, or two, depending on the size of the pot.

6. 6

   Its okay to have two layers, as long as they are tightly packed.

7. 7

   Place a plate that will fit inside the pot over the leaves to keep them from floating up, and pour in water just to cover.

8. 8

   Bring to a boil over high heat, cover the pot, and cook for 10 minutes.

9. 9

   Remove from the heat and let cool, still covered, until no longer steaming, about 20 minutes.

10. 10

    Pour off the water, pressing down on the plate to drain thoroughly and keep the leaf packets intact.

11. 11

    Set the pot aside until the packets are completely cool.

12. 12

    Carefully transfer the leaf packets to a platter, cover, and chill, preferably overnight, to firm and intensify the flavor.

13. 13

    To serve, arrange the lemon slices across the top and pour the olive oil over all.

14. 14

    Serve chilled or at room temperature.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.