Stuffed Grape Leaves

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   1.

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   Cook one cup of rice with one cup of water until half way done.

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   Let cool.

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   2.

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   Combine in a bowl the rice with ground beef, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 3 cloves of crushed garlic, salt and pepper to taste.

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   3.

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   Rinse the grape leaves and set on plate.

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   4.

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   Now its time to roll the grape leaves:

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    Spread the grape leaf on a plate.

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    Place about a teaspoon of the rice mixture on the base of the leaf.

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    Be sure not to pack it because the rice needs room to expand.

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    Fold the corners of the leaf over the rice mixture, starting with the bottom corners.

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    Now holding the mixture in place with your fingers, roll it forward until it is entirely wrapped.

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    Repeat until all the mixture is finished.

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    5.

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    Generously cover the bottom of a wide and shallow pot with olive oil.

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    Place the rolled grape leaves in the pot, with the seam facing down (so they dont open up while cooking).

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    6.

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    Thinly slice remaining 3 cloves of garlic and sprinkle over the grape leaves.

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    7.

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    Pour 2 cups chicken broth over the mixture.

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    Any kind of broth will do, including powdered chicken soup.

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    8.

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    Cook over low heat for at least one hour until the grape leaves are very tender.

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    The longer you cook them the better!

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    You might want to check every once in a while if it needs more broth.

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    9.

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    When the grape leaves are done and most of the broth has evaporated, take off the fire and squeeze a whole lemon over them.

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    10.

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    Eat!

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    These are tasty both hot or cold.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.