What inspired you to create a vegan version of this traditional Greek dish?
Dolmades are perhaps one of the most well-known and loved Greek dishes. Traditionally, dolmades are made with meat, but this vegan version is just as delicious, and perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy the taste of Greece without eating animal products. The stuffing is made with rice, herbs, and spices, and then wrapped in vine leaves. It’s a little bit of work to prepare, but so worth it in the end!
Ingredients:
- 1 jar vine leaves in brine
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup mint, chopped
- 1/2 cup dill, chopped
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup rice
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 3 cups water
- 1 lemon
Instructions:
- Drain the jar of vine leaves and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped onion, parsley, mint, and dill.
- Add the olive oil, rice, salt, and pepper to the mixing bowl and stir well.
- Take one vine leaf and place it on a flat surface with the shiny side down and the stem end towards you.
- Place a small spoonful of the rice mixture on the vine leaf, towards the stem end.
- Fold the sides of the vine leaf over the rice mixture and then roll the leaf up tightly.
- Repeat with the remaining vine leaves and rice mixture, placing the stuffed vine leaves tightly together in a large pot.
- Add 3 cups of water to the pot and bring to a boil.
- Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the stuffed vine leaves, cover the pot, and let simmer for 30 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool, then transfer the dolmades to a serving platter and enjoy!
