Papadakas Taverna Greek Stuffed Grape Leaves

Servings: 8 Difficulty: Advanced
Savory lamb-stuffed grape leaves baked with pine nuts, fresh herbs, and lemon
Papadakas Taverna Greek Stuffed Grape Leaves recipe image

Papadakas Taverna Greek Stuffed Grape Leaves

Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 8 Calories: 904.8

Description

These authentic Greek stuffed grape leaves, known as dolmades, feature a rich filling of ground lamb, aromatic onions, and fresh parsley and mint. The addition of toasted pine nuts adds a delightful crunch and nutty depth to the savory meat mixture. Baked in their own juices with a splash of lemon and olive oil, the leaves become tender while holding their shape perfectly. This dish is a staple of Greek tavernas, offering a perfect balance of earthy, herbal, and slightly acidic flavors. Ideal for a hearty appetizer, a light main course, or part of a mezze spread, these dolmades pair beautifully with yogurt sauce or a crisp white wine. They are equally delicious served warm or at room temperature, making them a versatile choice for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, finely chopped yellow onion, chopped parsley, chopped fresh mint, pine nuts, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix the ingredients together thoroughly with your hands until well combined.
  4. Rinse the grape leaves and remove any tough stems.
  5. Lay a grape leaf flat on a work surface, stem end facing you.
  6. Place approximately 3 ounces of the lamb mixture in the center of the grape leaf.
  7. Fold the stem end over the filling.
  8. Fold in the two sides towards the center.
  9. Roll the leaf tightly away from you to encase the mixture completely.
  10. Repeat this process until all the meat mixture is used.
  11. Line the bottom of a large baking dish with approximately 10 grape leaves to prevent sticking.
  12. Arrange the stuffed grape leaves in the dish, packing them tightly together in a single layer or two layers if necessary.
  13. Cover the stuffed grape leaves with water.
  14. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the leaves are tender and the filling is cooked through.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8


Amount Per Serving
Calories 904.8kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 68.2g105%
Saturated Fat 19.9g100%
Cholesterol 165.1mg56%
Sodium 2567.3mg107%
Total Carbohydrate 33.8g12%
Dietary Fiber 9.2g37%
Sugars 7.7g
Protein 46.1g93%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: greek, dolmades, grape leaves, stuffed, lamb, pine nuts, herbs, lemon, olive oil, mint, parsley, appetizer, meze, taverna, baked, mediterranean, traditional, party food
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