What are the ingredients needed to make this Greek-inspired appetizer?
Are you looking for a delicious appetizer recipe that will transport you to the sunny shores of Greece? Look no further than this mouth-watering recipe for Greek-style stuffed grape leaves! With a tangy, savory filling of rice, herbs, and spices wrapped in tender grape leaves, this appetizer is sure to be a hit at your next party or family gathering.
Greek-style Stuffed Grape Leaves
Ingredients:
- 1 jar grape leaves, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1/2 cup chopped herbs (such as dill, mint, and parsley)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Directions:
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooked rice, chopped herbs, chopped onion, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes.
- Carefully remove the grape leaves from the jar and separate them, discarding any torn or damaged leaves.
- Place a grape leaf flat on a work surface, shiny side down, with the stem facing you.
- Place a heaping teaspoon of the rice mixture in the center of the leaf.
- Fold the bottom of the leaf up over the filling, then fold the sides in toward the center, and roll the leaf up tightly into a neat package.
- Repeat with the remaining grape leaves and rice mixture.
- Arrange the stuffed grape leaves in a single layer in a large pot or Dutch oven.
- Just cover the grape leaves with water, then add extra lemon juice or salt as needed to taste.
- Cover the pot and bring the water to a simmer over medium heat.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer until the grape leaves are tender and the rice filling is cooked through, about 30 to 40 minutes.
- Remove the pot from the heat and let the stuffed grape leaves cool to room temperature.
- Serve the grape leaves at room temperature or chilled, garnished with extra sprigs of fresh herbs.
There you have it, a delicious and authentic appetizer recipe that’s sure to impress your guests and bring a little bit of Greece to your table. Enjoy!