What are the ingredients required to make authentic Greek dolmades?
Mediterranean Delight: Authentic Greek Dolmades Recipe
Introduction
Dolmades are a classic Greek dish that is typically served as an appetizer or part of a meze platter. They are made up of grape leaves stuffed with a delicious mixture of rice, herbs, and spices, and are then cooked until tender. This recipe is an authentic Greek version of dolmades that is easy to make and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 jar of grape leaves, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup of uncooked short-grain rice
- 1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup of chopped fresh mint
- 1/2 cup of chopped fresh dill
- 1/2 cup of chopped onion
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 1/4 cup of lemon juice
- 2 cups of water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
1. Place the uncooked rice in a large bowl and rinse it several times to remove excess starch. Drain the rice and then add the parsley, mint, dill, onion, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well.
2. Prepare the grape leaves by separating them carefully and rinsing them under cold running water to remove any brine or salt. Drain them well.
3. Take one grape leaf and place it with the smooth side down on a flat surface, like a cutting board or countertop. Place about a tablespoon of the rice mixture on the bottom third of the leaf, near the stem end.
4. Fold the stem end of the leaf over the filling and then fold the sides of the leaf inward. Roll the leaf around the filling, tucking the sides in as you go. Repeat this process with the remaining grape leaves and filling.
5. Place the filled grape leaves in a large pot, seam side down, and pack them tightly together. Pour 2 cups of water over the top of the grape leaves.
6. Cover the pot and bring it to a boil on high heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the grape leaves are soft.
7. Remove the dolmades from the pot with tongs and arrange them on a platter. Serve them hot or cold with a side of tzatziki sauce, if desired.
- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Cook time: 45 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Servings: 6-8