Total Cook time: 1 hour
Total Prep time: 30 minutes
Makes 34 delicious bites!
When it comes to cooking if there’s a shortcut available why not try it!? It had been seven years since I last made stuffed grape leaves or dolmas. And I remember why — they are slightly labor intensive but since I was eager to try them again I opted for a short cut: Rice-a-Roni!
Stuffed grape leaves are a standard Mediterranean classic. They can be made with or without meat. Also since they can be served warm or at room temperature they are a welcome addition to the weekend of barbecues and summer potlucks that await.
These are made without meat and make a great light snack!
- Grape Leaves, 34 from 1 8 ounce jar of 50 leaves
- Olive Oil, 1 tbsp
- Juice from 1/2 Lemon
If using Rice-a-Roni Long Grain & Wild Rice
- 1 tbsp onion, chopped
- 1/3 cup mushrooms, chopped
- 1 tbsp Basil, chopped
Sauté mushrooms, onions and basil till fragrant. Add Rice and prepare according to Less Fat Directions (normally located on side of box).
If using Parmesan & Romano Cheese
- Add 1 teaspoon of Allspice and prepare according to Less Fat directions (normally located on side of box).
Meanwhile, unwrap and separate grape leaves. Set aside torn or small leaves.
When rice is done, stir and set aside. On a separate plate or clean workspace and working with one grape leaf at a time (vein side up) place 1 tablespoon on rice in the center near stem. Fold up stem side and then sides. Roll up cigar style.
Repeat.
In a dutch oven or large pot place enough small grape leaves to cover bottom keep a few for later. Arrange stuffed leaves seam side down tightly in a single layer or two. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and cover with remaining grape leaves. Pour in 1.5 to 2 cups of water and weigh down with a small plate. Cover and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes.
Using tongs gently remove stuffed leaves and arrange on platter. Drizzle with lemon juice. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy!
LivingFood101 says
Those look really good! I have never heard of eating grape leaves, but I imagine they are healthy for you. Can you purchase them in the store, or do you have to grow your own. Thanks!
Baby in Bliss says
This sounds great, and looks very healthy. I saw them made another way and tasted them and they were very good, so I look forward to make this recipe.
Tabitha says
Thanks! I found grape leaves near the pickles and relish. They come in a jar. I had to go to Whole Foods because my local Safeway did not carry them.
Tabitha says
They can made with meat and I imagine anything your taste buds desire. Let me know how you like them!
LivingFood101 says
Thank you for getting back to me. I will be on the lookout for them, if I can’t find them then I will try it with a leafy green.
Mireya says
Thanks for posting. I love dolmas.
LivingFood101 says
I finally found the leaves at an Asian supermarket. I made the recipe and really loved it and will make it again soon! 🙂
Tabitha says
Thank you so much for letting us know how you liked them! Which rice did you use?
LivingFood101 says
The rice was just regular brown rice and i used parmesan cheese, which is one of my favorite cheeses that I still eat on occasion. I try to stay away from the boxed stuff for personal health reasons.