Vegetarian Stuffed Grape Leaves

1. 1

   Drain the grape leaves, then place them in a medium-sized pot and pour in enough water to cover the leaves.

2. 2

   Bring the water to a boil, and cook the leaves for about 10 minutes, to soften them.

3. 3

   While the leaves are cooking, in a large bowl, combined the uncooked instant brown rice, salt, pepper, mint, grated tomato, olive oil and lemon juice.

4. 4

   Stir until well combined.

5. 5

   (Add additional salt if necessary.)

6. 6

   After the grape leaves have boiled for 10 minutes, remove the pot from the stovetop, drain the leaves and rinse them under cold water a few times.

7. 7

   Once the leaves are cool enough to touch, start rolling the stuffed grape leaves: Take a grape leaf, lay it flat on a plate, then place about 1 tablespoon of the rice mixture in the center of the grape leaf.

8. 8

   Carefully roll the grape leaf like you would a burrito by rolling from the bottom up and folding in the sides as you go.

9. 9

   Place the stuffed grape leaf in a large pot, then repeat until you have stuffed all of the grape leaves.

10. 10

    Cover the stuffed grape leaves in the pot with 1/2 cup of water, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

11. 11

    Once it reaches a boil, cover and reduce the heat to low.

12. 12

    Cook over low until the stuffed grape leaves are fork-tender, about 25 minutes.

13. 13

    (Check the water level about halfway through.

14. 14

    If the bottom leaves are starting to dry out, add a little more water.)

15. 15

    Let cool slightly, drizzle with olive oil, serve with lemon wedges and enjoy!

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.