Are you looking for a delicious and authentic vegetarian grape leaves recipe? Look no further than this recipe from AddM3! This recipe provides a unique twist on the classic dish, using flavorful herbs and spices to create a tasty appetizer or main course.
Ingredient List
- 1 jar of preserved grape leaves (about 30-40 leaves)
- 2 cups of cooked white rice
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- Juice of one lemon
- Zest of one lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Directions
- Rinse your grape leaves thoroughly under cold water, then soak them in hot water for about an hour.
- In the meantime, prepare your filling by mixing together the cooked white rice with freshly chopped parsley and mint.
- Add in tomato paste, lemon juice & zest, salt, and pepper into the mixture. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Carefully remove each leaf from the jar one at a time and lay it flat on your work surface with its shiny side down.
- Place approximately two tablespoons of filling onto each leaf near its base closest to you.
7.Roll up each individual leaf tightly around the filling so that it forms compact little packages similar to spring rolls or burritos.
8.Place each rolled-up package into an oiled baking dish with its open edge facing down so that they won’t unravel during cooking process.
9.Drizzle olive oil over all stuffed grapeleaves before covering them first tightly with tin foil; steam in preheated oven for approximately forty-five minutes – or until flavorful perfection has been achieved!
Cooking Time & Temperature Guidelines
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the stuffed grape leaves for approximately forty-five minutes or until browned and heated through.
Pro-Tips
- Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to the filling mixture for an extra depth of flavor.
- Serve with tzatziki sauce on the side for an added taste experience!
- Make sure you tightly pack your filling into each leaf before rolling it up so that they don’t unravel while baking.
Seasoning Options
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in this recipe! Cumin, dill, coriander, and oregano are all excellent options that would complement the other ingredients well.
Recommended Tools
- Baking dish
- Tin foil
- Mixing bowl
To Sum Up
This authentic vegetarian grape leaves recipe provides a unique twist on a classic dish by using flavorful herbs and spices. With just a few simple steps and ingredients like preserved grape leaves, cooked white rice, fresh parsley & mint – this recipe is perfect as either an appetizer or main course meal. Overall it’s healthy food packed full of nutrients—perfect for vegetarians who want something delicious but nutritious too!
FAQs
Q1. Can I make this recipe vegan?
A1. Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by omitting the feta cheese or substituting it with a dairy-free alternative like tofu, nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.
Q2. Can I use fresh grape leaves instead of jarred ones?
A2. Yes, you can use fresh grape leaves if they are available in your area and have not been treated with any chemicals or pesticides. Simply blanch the fresh grape leaves in boiling water for 30 seconds and then submerge them in cold water before using.
Q3. How long do these stuffed grape leaves last in the fridge?
A3. These stuffed grape leaves can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. You can simply reheat them gently on the stove or enjoy them cold as a snack or side dish.
