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History & Heritage

12.15.2022

Stuffed vine leaves: how to make this famous Levantine recipe?

They’re called “dolmas” or “yalanji” depending on the region. Stuffed vine leaves are a specialty that is enjoyed in the Middle East, especially in Lebanon, Palestine and Syria. In fact, it is a dish found in many countries of the Mediterranean basin. What are the contents of the vine leaves and what ingredients are needed to prepare them? Kawa News tells you everything!

Stuffed vine leaves: a vegetarian dish?

The most popular version is the vegetarian one. The recipe consists in filling vine leaves with rice, parsley, onions, tomatoes, garlic, lemon juice, spices, and olive oil. In Syria, a variation based on ground beef or lamb shank is also very popular. Vegetarian or not, the vine leaves can be eaten cold or hot, as a main dish or in a mezze with yogurt and Arabic bread.

Nutritionally, they have the advantage of being rich in fiber, vitamins A and K, and low in calories! Another good point for this Levantine dish is its high antioxidant content.

 

Stuffed vine leaves: preparation secrets

The basic ingredient not to be neglected is, of course, the vine leaves. These can be fresh, if you are lucky enough to harvest them, or canned. You can easily find them in oriental stores and grocery stores.

For your stuffed grape leaves to be rich in flavor, it’s all about the seasoning of the stuffing! So what are the key spices and herbs in this dish? Parsley, mint, pepper, and sumac. To which we add freshly squeezed lemon juice! This is what gives the stuffed grape leaves their delicious lemony taste. And to add a caramelized touch, the unsuspected ingredient is pomegranate molasses.

Finally, for the garnish, choose round rice that is known to better absorb juices and sauces. Your grape leaves will be even tastier! If you’re feeling lazy, you can buy stuffed vine leaves in jars in many supermarkets. Enjoy your meal!

Published on 15 December 2022

#Middle-East