What are dolmades and how are they traditionally prepared?
Dolmades, also known as stuffed grape leaves, are a popular Greek dish that is traditionally made with ground meat, rice, and herbs. However, this vegan twist on the classic recipe showcases a plant-based version of dolmades that are just as delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 jar grape leaves
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1/2 cup chopped scallions
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Rinse the grape leaves in cold water and pat them dry.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooked rice, parsley, mint, dill, and scallions.
- Add 1/4 cup of the olive oil, the lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to the bowl, and mix well to combine.
- Lay each grape leaf flat, vein side up and stem end facing you. Place a spoonful of the rice mixture in the center of each leaf.
- Roll the leaf into a tight cylinder, tucking in the sides as you go. Repeat with the remaining grape leaves and filling.
- Place the rolled dolmades, seam side down, in a baking dish. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the dolmades.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes, or until the leaves are tender.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the dolmades are lightly browned on top.
- Allow the dolmades to cool for a few minutes before serving.
This vegan twist on dolmades is a refreshing and tasty alternative to the traditional recipe. The herbaceous filling and juicy grape leaves make for a delicious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as an appetizer. So why not give this recipe a try and enjoy the flavors of Greece in a new and exciting way?
