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1
You will need a large Dutch oven or similar pot with lid (this is required in this recipe).
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2
If you need two large pots use two.
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3
In a large mixing bowl add raw ground meat, oregano, salt, pepper and onion powder.
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4
Mix together with clean hands (you will be using your hands a lot in this recipe).
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Add the un-cooked rice and mix well.
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(Remember to wash your hands well after touching the raw meat mixture).
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7
On a clean work surface empty the jars of grape leaves into a large baking dish or platter.
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8
The imported from Greece grape leaves are ready to use (no cutting, etc.).
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9
Set one grape leaf on your work surface and with your hands scoop a portion of rice and seasoned hamburger mixture into the center of the grape leaf.
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10
Gently roll up the grape leaf and place it inside the large Dutch oven.
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11
You will line the Dutch oven with several rows of filled grape leaves.
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12
This is a time consuming endeavor so patience is required while stuffing and rolling all of the grape leaves.
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13
I usually have music playing in the background to lighten up the task.
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14
These Dolmades are so terrific and delicious, its well worth the effort.
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15
Continue rolling and stuffing the leaves.
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16
Once the Dutch oven is full and youve used all of your rice/hamburger mixture and grape leaves, add diced tomatoes and whole tomatoes to the top of Dolmades.
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17
Put the lid on the Dutch oven.
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18
Turn stove top on medium high heat and place the Dutch oven on the heat.
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19
Cook for 30 minutes, then lower heat to medium low for the next 60 minutes of cooking time.
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Do not disturb the pot while cookingjust leave the lid on and relax.
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Then remove pot from the heat.
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22
I let these rest for 10 minutes before I serve them.
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23
All you need is some crusty bread and a hearty appetite!
