Dolmas (Stuffed Grape Leaves)

These delicious dolmas (stuffed grape leaves) are filled with a mixture of rice, onions, currants, pine nuts, mint and spices, then gently steamed.

• Preparation Time: 30 mins
• Cooking Time: 45 mins
• Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
• Calories: 207 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup hot water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon dried dill weed
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 onions, minced
• 2 tablespoons pine nuts
• 2 tablespoons dried currants
• 1 tablespoon dried mint
• 1 (8 ounce) jar grape leaves, drained and rinsed
• 1.5 cups uncooked white rice

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Pour in just enough warm water to reach the bottom of the first layer of dolmas. Cover and simmer over low heat for 30 to 45 minutes, or until rice is totally cooked. Check the water level often and add more as necessary.

Step 2

Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in rice, then add enough hot water to cover. Cover and simmer until rice is halfway cooked, about 10 minutes.

Step 3

Remove from the heat and stir in tomato paste, currants, pine nuts, cinnamon, mint, dill, allspice, and cumin. Let mixture cool, about 15 minutes.

Step 4

Prepare a large pot by placing an inverted plate on the bottom; this will protect the dolmas from direct heat during steaming.

Step 5

Cut off and discard any grape leaf stems. Place about 1 teaspoon cooled rice mixture into the center of a leaf. Fold in the sides, then roll into a cigar shape. Place into the prepared pot. Repeat to make remaining dolmas.