These traditional Greek dolmathes are the epitome of comfort food, offering tender, briny grape leaves filled with a savory blend of lean ground beef and short-grain rice. The filling is seasoned with warm cumin, fresh dill, and sweet onion, creating a harmonious balance of earthy and herbal flavors. Slow simmering in broth allows the rice to absorb the rich juices while the meat becomes incredibly tender. Perfect as a hearty side dish or a light main course, they are best served with a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of creamy avgolemono sauce. Ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or when you crave a taste of the Mediterranean.
Dolmathes (Stuffed Grape Leaves
Description
These traditional Greek dolmathes are the epitome of comfort food, offering tender, briny grape leaves filled with a savory blend of lean ground beef and short-grain rice. The filling is seasoned with warm cumin, fresh dill, and sweet onion, creating a harmonious balance of earthy and herbal flavors. Slow simmering in broth allows the rice to absorb the rich juices while the meat becomes incredibly tender. Perfect as a hearty side dish or a light main course, they are best served with a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of creamy avgolemono sauce. Ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or when you crave a taste of the Mediterranean.Ingredients
Directions
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Drain and rinse the canned grape leaves under cold water; pat dry.
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In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, dill, cumin, and vegetable oil.
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Add the short-grain rice to the meat mixture and mix by hand until evenly combined.
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Season the filling generously with salt and pepper to taste.
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Place a grape leaf vein-side up on a flat surface.
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Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the meat mixture onto the center of the leaf.
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Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling and roll tightly into a small cigar shape.
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Arrange the rolled leaves seam-side down in a single layer in a deep saucepan.
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Pour chicken broth over the rolls until they are mostly submerged.
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Cover the pan and simmer over low heat for 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
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Let cool slightly before serving with lemon wedges or avgolemono sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1448.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 75.5g117%
- Saturated Fat 18.9g95%
- Cholesterol 279.3mg94%
- Sodium 281.4mg12%
- Total Carbohydrate 94.5g32%
- Dietary Fiber 26.8g108%
- Sugars 1.1g
- Protein 105.6g212%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.