What ingredients are needed to make traditional Greek Dolmades at home?
Delicious Dolmades: A Traditional Greek Appetizer to Try at Home
Dolmades are one of the most typical appetizers in Greek cuisine, known and loved across the world. Often served as part of a mezze platter, these delightful bundles of flavour are fresh vine leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and usually lamb. Today, however, we will be taking a vegetarian spin on this classic dish.
Ingredients:
- 50 fresh vine leaves
- 1 cup of long grain rice
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Start by blanching the vine leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.
- In a large sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onions are translucent.
- Add the rice to the pan and cook for another couple of minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice turns slightly golden.
- Add in the parsley, mint, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute before removing from heat and setting aside to cool.
- Once the filling has cooled, take a vine leaf and place a spoonful of the rice mixture in the center. Fold the sides in towards the center and then roll up from the bottom to form a tidy bundle.
- Repeat this process with the remaining leaves and filling.
- Place the dolmades in a large pot, seam-side down, and cover with a plate to keep them from unwrapping during cooking. Pour over enough water to just cover the dolmades, then bring the water to a boil. Lower the heat and let simmer for around 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is cooked.
- Remove from heat and let them cool before serving. Enjoy the dolmades with some tzatziki sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Tips:
- Ensure the vine leaves are thoroughly cooled before you start stuffing them to prevent them from ripping.
- Don’t pack the dolmades too tightly in the pot as the rice will need room to expand.
Outro:
Everyone should have a chance to enjoy and make some good ol’ traditional dolmades right at home! This delicious vegetarian alternative to the classic Greek appetizer ensures that. These easy-to-make delicacies are packed full of flavor and they’re perfect for sharing and parties. Enjoy eating with lemon juice or chilled tzatziki – dip, bite, and savour the Mediterranean experience!
